Growing conditions are critical to producing a high quality cotton and Supima^® requires a dry and hot climate in which moisture can be controlled. Consequently, Supima^® is only grown in the Southwestern and Western portion of the United States in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Each year, over 2,000 growers plant the Supima^® crop in the spring for harvest in October and November.

Of the 120 million bales of cotton that are annually produced around the world, less than 1%, or approximately 700,000 bales, are judged to be good enough to carry the Supima^® name. A combination of the terms "superior" and "pima," Supima^® represents the largest segment of ELS (Extra-Long Staple) cotton that is grown.