Organic Cotton

Organic Cotton

Today, cotton is typically considered in two production systems: organic and conventional.

Organic cotton must be grown from non-genetically modified seed and follow certified production standards, while conventional cotton may be grown with either non-GM or genetically modified (GM) seed, depending on the grower and region. These distinctions relate to how the crop is managed in the field, not the quality, safety, or end-use potential of the cotton fiber. Cotton’s classification as organic or conventional is not an automatic indication of sustainability. Both organic and conventional growers often use practices that support soil health, water retention, biodiversity, carbon capture, and long-term productivity.¹ 

What is organic cotton? 

Organic cotton refers to the production methods and farm management practices, not the fibers’ characteristics, classing, or performance. Organically grown cotton must use non-GM seed and rely primarily on natural products for soil fertility and pest control. Organic standards do allow a limited set of approved synthetic inputs, but only when preferred non-synthetic methods are insufficient.²  About 1.4 % of the world’s cotton supply is grown organically.³ 

Is organic cotton sustainable? 

The United States is one of the few countries with regulated and enforced organic cotton production systems. U.S.-grown organic cotton must follow USDA organic standards and be verified by accredited third-party certifiers.⁴ These standards require practices that promote biodiversity, cycle resources, and maintain ecological balance in addition to the restrictions on pesticide and fertilizers.  

Organic cotton production also has tradeoffs. It generally produces lower yields, often due to limited pest-management tools, increased weed pressure, and organic input restrictions.⁵  Lower yields can contribute to higher production and management costs compared with conventional cotton, reflecting more labor intensive cultivation practices, and certification requirements.^3, 6  While organic systems can reduce the use of certain synthetic inputs and may support biodiversity, lower yields can require more land on a per-unit-of-fiber basis. These outcomes vary depending on region, soil type, and management practices.⁷  Ultimately, a cotton crop’s environmental impact depends more on regional conditions, management practices, and soil types than on whether it is grown organically or conventionally. 

What is conventional cotton? 

Conventional growers have access to a wider set of tools and technologies than organic systems allow. These may include synthetic and natural inputs, seed treatments, synthetic fertilizers, and a broader range of pest management options, depending on regional pressures and farm management goals. Conventional cotton includes cotton grown with GM seeds or seeds developed from traditional breeding methods. Many growers choose GM seed varieties that provide insect or herbicide tolerance, which can reduce the need for certain pesticide applications and help protect yields. ⁸  

Conventional cotton is the most widely grown production system in the United States. In 2019, 95 percent of U.S. cotton acreage used herbicide-tolerant (HT) traits, and in 2020, 88 percent used insect resistant (Bt) traits.⁹ Many GM seed varieties include both traits, offering growers protection against multiple production risks. 

Research shows that Bt cotton varieties can help protect yields and reduce pesticide applications compared with non-GM varieties, particularly in regions with higher insect pressure.⁸  These changes can improve farm-level economic outcomes while reducing pesticide use, though results vary by region and management conditions. 

Regardless of seed type, conventional cotton growers can, and often do, adopt regenerative practices, such as cover crops and conservation tillage, further supporting soil health, water retention, and long-term productivity.¹⁰ 

Comparing Organic and Conventional Cotton 

Organic and conventional cotton share many similarities. Both systems are subject to federal regulations and able to utilize a range of best farming management practices. Both can also incorporate agriculture techniques, moving them toward being regenerative. The key differences relate to seed type, input restrictions, and certification requirements. After harvesting, organic and conventional cotton are indistinguishable in look, feel, and performance. 

Organic Cotton

• Not grown from GM seeds 
• Uses a limited set of approved pesticide and fertilizer inputs, including some synthetic substances when permitted² 
• Generally produces lower yields per acre⁵ 
• Relies primarily on cultural and biological pest-management practices 
• Makes up 1.4% of the world’s cotton³
• Often uses regenerative agriculture practices 

Conventional Cotton

• May be grown from non-GM or (GM) seed 
• Can use synthetic and natural inputs 
• May use a broader range of pest-management tools 
• Often uses regenerative agriculture practices 

Despite production differences, the resulting fiber performs the same. Organic and conventional cotton both deliver the natural comfort, appearance, and versatility that consumers expect. 

Organic Cotton FAQs

Answers to the top questions surrounding organic cotton and conventional cotton.