Seasons of Rice

Rice is considered a Kharif crop, with its growth process directly based on the changing seasons. The cycle of growing rice is about 190 days, and the harvest seasons last for at least 30 days, which fall in mid-September to October. However, rice is cultivated under broadly varied conditions of climate and altitude. Thus, the rice growing seasons differ in different parts of the country based on rainfall, temperature, water availability, soil types, and other climatic conditions. 

Spring:

Once the chilly winter is over, the start of spring marks the onset of the rice growing cycle. Usually, during this period, farmers start arranging their fields by plowing and leveling the soil, building the ideal settings for plantation. Spring brings warmer temperatures and sufficient rainfall in areas with pleasant weather conditions, perfect for germination. 

Summer:

Summer is particularly the season when rice plants flourish. When temperatures rise and days become longer, the immature rice plants start to grow actively. The whole growing process involves a lot of water, supplied through excellent irrigation systems of monsoon rain in some places. Moreover, the dense green rice fields swaying through the warm breeze are blissful, showcasing fertility and prosperity. 

Monsoon:

In most rice cultivation areas, the monsoon plays a vital role. The heavy rainfall during this period offered the required water to grow and paddy rice. However, too much rain can also result negatively, which may further damage the crops. That’s why farmers need to handle water levels in the fields carefully to ensure constant growth without harming the plants. 

Autumn:

Once the summer starts to fade away, it’s time for autumn to approach, which means the right time for the rice plant to mature. The same thriving green fields turn vibrant hues of gold as the rice grains ripen. Most importantly, this season of rice is highly vital for the rice harvest process. During this season, all farmers observe the fields attentively, waiting for the perfect time to harvest their crops. 

Harvest Season:

During this time, rice harvesting starts and is celebrated like a massive community event in most areas. All the people gather together to reap the fully mature grains, enjoy their hard work, and flourish beautifully. Based on the years of traditions, harvesting includes cutting the rice stalks and collecting them into sheaves. After stocking them together, these sheaves are tossed to separate the grains from the stalks. Due to advanced technologies, the process of harvesting rice has become seamless and quick, increasing efficiency to a greater extent. 

Winter:

Once the harvesting is done in abundance, the field lies barren throughout the winter season. Moreover, some regions cultivate winter rice, benefiting from milder climates to grow a second crop. However, in most areas, this season acts as a period for farmers to rest and prepare for the next rice cultivation cycle. 

Therefore, the entire nature of rice farming is intensely connected with seasons. The cycle preserves communities and depicts the intense relationship between humans and nature. As every season has its own bunch of difficulties and rewards, the cycle of rice cultivation definitely shapes the lives of people associated with growing this valuable grain.