Rabi and Kharif: Pakistan’s two main crop seasons
What the two seasons mean, which crops belong to each and why the timing matters.
- Kharif crops are sown with the summer monsoon and harvested in autumn; Rabi crops are sown in winter and harvested in spring.
- Wheat is the main Rabi crop; rice, cotton and sugarcane are important Kharif crops.
- Exact sowing and harvest dates vary by region and year.
- Check advice from the provincial agriculture department for your area.
Two seasons
Agriculture in Pakistan follows two main cropping seasons. Kharif crops are sown in the hot, wet months, roughly April to June, and harvested in the autumn. Rabi crops are sown in the cooler months, roughly October to December, and harvested in spring.
Typical crops
- Rabi: wheat is the most important, along with crops such as gram, mustard and barley.
- Kharif: rice, cotton, maize and sugarcane are among the important crops.
Which crops a farmer grows depends on water, soil, climate and market prices.
Why timing matters
Water availability, temperature and rain decide when seeds go into the ground and when crops can be harvested. A delay can reduce yields.
Where to get advice
Provincial agriculture departments and extension services give local advice on seed, fertiliser, pests and sowing dates. National policy information is published by the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.
Sources and official pages
This guide is general information. Rules, fees and procedures change, so confirm current details with the official body before you act.