Organic Farm System

Organic cotton is not usually grown on its own (as a monoculture). It requires a variety of crops performing special roles to support the organic nature of the farm system. This means each crop grown on the farm has a role to play in supporting the viability of the organic farm system to produce cotton – and thus the livelihood of the small scale farmer. The role each crop plays will vary – for example it might contribute to soil fertility (rotation crop), help control pests (trap crop), keep the family food secure or be a valuable cash crop. Food for personal consumption, and further income from local, regional or export market contributes to the socio-economic viability of the farm system.