Levant Cotton is a cotton species native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of Africa. This perennial produces small yellow flowers which turn to small cotton bolls, which in turn yield cotton lint.

Levant Cotton is ideally started indoors 4-6 weeks before the end of frost season, but can also be planted directly outdoors in the spring once frost danger has passed.

Levant Cotton requires full sun, and should be grown in fertile, moist, well-draining soil.

• To assist germination, soak these seeds in warm water for a few hours before planting.
• If starting indoors, sow seeds into small pots filled with a potting compost.
• If sowing directly outdoors, first prepare a seedbed by removing weeds and breaking up soil. Enrich with organic compost if soil is poor.
• Sow 1-2 seeds per plant at a depth of 1/4 inch, and cover with soil.
• Keep seeds moist and at a temperature of 70F+ degrees. Under proper conditions, these seeds should germinate in 1-2 weeks.
• As indoor seedlings grow, repot them each month into a larger container to allow for root growth. Indoor seedlings can be transplanted outdoors once established, but Levant Cotton can also remain a potted plant.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Levant Cotton fares poorly in cold weather. It can be grown as an annual in cooler climates, but can also be overwintered indoors if potted.
• This plant should receive regular waterings in order to maintain moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
• If annually repotting potted plants, fertilization should be unnecessary. Applications of balanced fertilizer during the growing season is helpful for ground plants.