The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Cotton is a tropical and subtropical Kharif crop. It requires specific climatic conditions, including high temperatures and a long growing season, to ensure optimal fiber quality and yield.- Statement 1 is Correct: Cotton requires bright sunshine for its growth. Adequate sunlight is essential for photosynthesis and the proper maturation of cotton bolls. Cloudiness during the growing season can adversely affect the boll setting and fiber quality.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: While cotton requires light to moderate rainfall (50 to 100 cm) during its vegetative growth, it requires dry and clear weather during the harvesting period. Heavy rainfall during the boll-opening or harvest stage damages the cotton fiber and reduces its quality.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Cotton is highly sensitive to frost. It requires a long growing season with at least 210 frost-free days for successful maturation. Frost can kill the plant or severely damage the developing bolls.
Key Takeaway: Cotton is a Kharif crop that necessitates high temperatures, light rainfall, bright sunshine, and at least 210 frost-free days, with strictly dry conditions required during the harvesting phase.