Organic Cotton Production System in Turkey

摘要

Organic cotton production is thousands of years old, but certified organic production is about two decades old. Unlike some other production initiatives, organic cotton is a comprehensive production system requiring technological knowhow on a level, if not greater, at least equivalent to that required by conventional production. A farmer producing organic cotton must also understand all the other crops that are grown in a cropping system. Any production system requires research, guidelines and continuous updates. This article is an attempt to convey an understanding of organic cotton production technology as it is employed in Turkey, including management options for efficient control of weeds, insects and diseases. The article also provides information on the nutrient needs of an organic production system and how to meet those needs. Expert recommendations are meant to provide a sound foundation for Turkish farmers to guide their decisionmaking process. As the circumstances of farmers vary from country to country and from region to region, so too must the recommendations designed for them. Unfortunately, technical guidelines to support organic production are not coming at the same pace as the drive to expand organic production. Consequently, promoters of organic production systems have few tangibles with which to back up their claims.