Types of Crops
The types of crops depending on the various seasons in which they are grown are as follows:
Kharif crops
The term kharif means autumn. Kharif Crops are the crops in which the seeds are sown during the monsoon season. Such crops need lots of water to grow. The sowing usually starts in June. The crops are harvested during the autumn season, usually by September or October. Examples of Kharif crops include rice, ragi, maize, bajra, groundnut, and soyabean.
Rabi Crops
The term Rabi is an Arabic word and it means spring. These crops are sown during November and the crops are harvested by the spring season, usually by March or April. These crops usually do not require much water, and unusual excess rains can damage the water. Such crops require warmer climate for the processes of germination and maturation of seeds and require cold climate for growth. Wheat, barley, mustard etc. are some examples of rabi crops.
Zaid Crops
Zaid crops usually lie in between kharif crops and rabi crops. The seeds are, usually sown during the month of March and are harvested in the month of June. They are grown for a short period and crops mature early. Examples of Zaid crops include watermelon, muskmelon, vegetables etc.
Types of Crops
Many factors influence types of Crops: Crops are plants cultivated and harvested by farmers for various purposes like food, animal feed, fibre production, and industrial purposes. Crops include both food and non-food items. Many factors influence crop production, and the variety of crops also depends upon the season. Agriculture contributes to a major portion of India’s GDP(Gross Domestic Product) and is a major occupation in rural areas.
Table of Content
- What are Crops?
- Types of Crops
- Factors Affecting Crop Production
- Food Crops
- Cash Crops
- Green Revolution in India