The months in which Zaid crops are typically grown are:

The months in which Kharif crops are typically grown are:

In tropical and subtropical agro-ecologies, the concept of a single annual growing season is obsolete. Instead, farmers have historically adapted to meteorological rhythms by dividing the year into three distinct cropping seasons. The terms Kharif , Rabi , and Zaid derive from Arabic and Urdu, adopted widely in Indian agriculture to denote autumn, spring, and summer harvests, respectively. Understanding the precise months for each season is fundamental for seed scheduling, water resource management, fertilizer application, and market forecasting. This paper dissects each season on a monthly calendar, examining the phenology of key crops and the underlying climatic drivers.

October–November rainfall (formerly dry for Rabi sowing) has increased by 40% in some zones, causing waterlogging and seedling rot in wheat and chickpea.

Over the past 30 years, the Southwest Monsoon arrival has delayed by 5–15 days in parts of central India. This pushes Kharif sowing into late July, shortening the growing window and reducing rice yield.

These crops require high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Regular water supply is critical during the early growth stages of the plants. Major Kharif Crops The staple crop requiring flooded fields. Maize: Grows well in well-drained fertile soils.