Case Studies & Stories

Improving yield and reducing input costs

Smarter irrigation and nutrient use increased productivity
On her 14-acre farm in Jiubei Village, Guazhou, China, cotton farmer Li Xinping had been facing growing uncertainty around crop management decisions. Rising production costs, inconsistent yields, and limited technical knowledge around fertiliser application and pest management were making it increasingly difficult to maintain stable profits.
After joining the REEL Cotton Training Programme in 2022, Li began applying more targeted and efficient farming practices tailored to her local growing conditions. With guidance on cotton variety selection, fertiliser management, and irrigation techniques, she was able to improve productivity while significantly lowering input costs.

The challenge

Before participating in the training programme, Li often relied on trial and error when making decisions about crop management. Uncertainty around which cotton varieties were best suited to local conditions, how much fertiliser to apply, and when to use pesticides created inefficiencies across the farm. Input costs continued to rise, yet returns remained unpredictable.

Over-application of fertilisers also increased expenses without consistently improving productivity, while labour-intensive irrigation practices added further pressure during the growing season. As profits declined, maintaining financial stability became increasingly difficult for Li and her family.

The approach

Through the REEL Cotton Training Programme, Li received practical training focused on improving efficiency and decision-making at farm level. The programme supported her to select cotton varieties better suited to local climate conditions, reduce excessive base fertiliser application, and improve nutrient management practices. She also introduced drip irrigation systems to optimise water use.

These changes helped simplify farm management while improving the efficiency of both water and fertiliser use. The training also increased Li’s confidence in making farming decisions independently, replacing uncertainty with a more structured and informed approach to cotton production.

Lower production costs

By reducing unnecessary fertiliser use and improving resource efficiency, Li lowered overall input costs by approximately 20%. Drip irrigation also helped reduce labour demands and optimise water application across the farm. The shift toward regenerative methods also reduced dependence on external agricultural inputs, giving him greater control over farm management decisions.

Increased productivity

Alongside cost reductions, cotton yields increased by around 20%, helping restore profitability and improve financial stability for her household. Better crop management practices and more suitable variety selection contributed to stronger crop performance throughout the season.

Growing confidence through learning

Beyond the measurable farm improvements, the programme also changed how Li approached farming decisions. Access to practical training and ongoing learning opportunities gave her greater confidence in managing her farm and encouraged her to share her experiences with neighbouring farmers interested in improving their own practices.

“I changed my fertilizer habits and now get higher yields.”

Li Xinping, Cotton Farmer, China

Looking ahead

Li’s experience demonstrates how relatively small changes in farm management can deliver significant improvements in both productivity and profitability. By helping farmers make more informed decisions about inputs, irrigation, and crop management, training programmes can unlock higher yields while reducing costs and resource use.

As climate pressures, rising input prices, and market uncertainty continue to challenge cotton producers, practical knowledge and access to proven farming techniques will become increasingly important. Supporting farmers to improve efficiency at field level helps create stronger livelihoods, more resilient cotton production systems, and a more secure supply of responsibly produced cotton for brands and retailers.