Cotton is a crop that is traditionally grown in the southern U.S. It is just starting to be grown in southern Kansas. This picture shows the plant flowering. As the flower becomes mature, it develops into a cotton boll.

Here is a picture of a young cotton boll (the cotton boll is inside the white square).  The boll contains the cotton and the seeds.

This is a mature cotton boll that is ready to be harvested.

The combine used to harvest cotton is called a cotton picker.  How much do you think this would cost?  If you guessed $225,000, then you are right.

This is cotton seed. The seed on the left still has the lint left on it.  In contrast, the seed on the right had the lint removed (by acid).  Also, the seed on the right, which will be used for planting, has been treated with a chemical to prevent diseases and insects.

What do you think cotton is used for? You're right, primarily for clothes. (Go K-State!)

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