**4.1 Selection of suitable cotton varieties**

The choice of seeds is made in accordance with the soil and climate conditions, farming methods, and estimated yields [15]. For mechanical drilling, 20–30 kg/ha of seed is needed, whereas 14–16 kg/ha is needed for ridge sowing [16]. The chosen seed should be able to withstand extremes in temperature as well as very low ones [17]. It should also be resistant to diseases like CLCuV and able to survive droughts [18]. The cotton varieties (CYTO 177, FH 326, BS 15, Sahara 120, Weal AG Shahkar, NIAB 878, Tarzan 3, NIABG 4, CYTO 179, CIM 600, and BPC 11) that Punjab Seed Council just issued have resistance for a variety of diseases and insect pests.

#### **4.2 Seed treatment**

The cotton seeds frequently have low germination rates. To increase germination, cotton seed is cleaned of lint [19]. Acid delinting and mechanical removal are the two processes that are most commonly employed to remove lint from cotton seed. For seed delinting, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid are frequently employed [20]. The heat created by the acid and moisture interaction causes the short fibers on cotton seeds to deteriorate [21]. Water is used to wash the residue. The wet acid technique, which uses soda ash or ammonia to neutralize the seed lime, is so named [22]. Fungicides are used in the treatment of delinted seed.

#### **4.3 Sowing time**

The season for planting cotton begins in April and lasts through the end of May [23]. The quality of cotton fiber is impacted by late planting. Cotton planting may begin in May in warm places (mainly in the south). To investigate a cultivar's production potential in each area, the date of planting is crucial [24]. Warm soil temperatures are necessary for cotton seed germination because they promote strong seedling growth [25]. Low soil temperature, which causes poor plant development, makes crops seeded very early, particularly in the month of February, appear to have a weak crop stand [26]. Similarly, cotton seedlings planted too late are shaded by weeds [27].

Weed infestation, CLCuV infection, and heat stress all limit crop development [28]. Any inadequate management of cotton that was planted in the late season reduces production. Accordingly, the planting date is a crucial determinant in the potential production and healthy plant growth [29].
