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Pest control
Conventional cotton uses insecticides heavily, accounting for approximately 25%   of world consumption , uses pesticides; the nine most common are highly toxic; five are probable carcinogens. Frequently uses aerial spraying , with potential drift onto farm workers, neighboring wildlife and communities.
Organic cotton maintains a balance between “pests” and their natural predators through healthy soil and uses beneficial insects, biological and cultural practices to control pests. May use rap crop , planted to lure insects away from the cotton.
Harvesting
Conventional cotton defoliates with toxic chemicals.
organic cotton relies mostly on the seasonal freeze for defoliation. May stimulate defoliation through water management.
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