Crops are plants which farmers grow on a massive scale which are of different kinds. They need a favourable climate for growing. Thus, there are different crops which require different seasons in order to grow. Similarly, the crops divide into types of Kharif and Rabi. However, there is a third type too known as Zaid crops. But, for now, we will focus on the difference between Kharif and rabi crops. These crops divide on the season they grow in. Moreover, the Asian countries majorly follow this pattern of growing crops. Some examples of Kharif crops are Jowar, Bajra, Maize, etc whereas Kharif crops are wheat, gram, barley, etc. This article will help you in getting a better understanding of their differences and meaning.
Definition of Kharif Crops
The main season of growing Kharif crops is the monsoon. Thus, it takes place between June and October. It is also the reason why Kharif Crops are also called Monsoon crops. However, a major difference between Kharif and rabi crops is that the former does not need too much water for growing.
As a result, the farmers sow these crops at the beginning of monsoon only. On the other hand, these crops are harvested at September’s end or in October. Not to forget, these Kharif crops depend on the pattern of the rainfall as well as timing heavily.
It is one of the main reasons why farmers in some of the regions sow them earlier than the other states. In other words, all depends on the arrival of the rainy season. Examples of Kharif crops are Bajra, Cotton, Rice, Pulses etc.
Definition of Rabi Crops
The main season of growing the Rabi crops is during winters. As a result, we also call them Winter crops. Thus, the months in which they are grown in is between October and March.
Another interesting fact to know is that the meaning of ‘Rabi’ is spring. So, it is obvious that the farmers harvest these crop during the season of Spring. As we stated before, these crops need water in abundance for growing properly.
Consequently, routine water irrigation helps these crops to grow abundantly. Some examples of Rabi crops are Gram, Wheat, Cumin, Pulses, Rapeseed, Barley, Mustard and more.
Difference between Kharif And Rabi Crops
Important Difference between Kharif And Rabi Crops
Basis of Comparison | Kharif Crops | Rabi Crops |
Another Name | Monsoon or Autumn Crops | Winter crops |
Sowing Season | Early May- beginning of the first monsoon rains | Mid-November- After the monsoon rains |
Rainfall | Has a huge impact | Does not that great of an impact |
Requirements | Hot weather and water in abundance | Warm climate for germination and cold climate for growth |
Harvesting Months | Between September and October | Between March and April |
Etymology | Autumn season in Arabic | Spring season in Arabic |
Flowering | Requires a short day length | Requires a long day length |
Example | Bajra, Groundnut, Bajra, Maize and more | Mustard, Coriander, Wheat, Cumin and more |
More details about Kharif Crops
Let us take a look at some of the major Kharif crops. Firstly, the most common example is rice. It is also one of the most important agricultural crops in India as well as a staple food.
India is the second-largest producer of rice all over the world. Another important Kharif crop is Maize. In fact, India is quite a big producer of Maize.
More details about Rabi Crops
Wheat is a Rabi crop which brings a massive amount of agricultural income for India. Moreover, it is also the second-largest producer globally.
Similarly, Mustard is also a Rabi crop which many households in India use for cooking. They need a dry and cool climate for growing. The state with the largest production of this crop is Uttar Pradesh which is followed by Rajasthan.
FAQs about Difference Between Kharif And Rabi Crops
Question 1: What is the difference between Kharif and Rabi crops in terms of factors they require for growing?
Answer 1: Kharif crops require hot weather and water in abundance. On the other hand, the rabi crops need warm climate for seed germination and cold climate for growth.
Question 2: State the different types of crops?
Answer 2: The different types of crops are Kharif crops, Rabi crops, Zaid crops, Food crops and Cash crops.
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