From that year on, the village adopted a new calendar. They grew their staples in Kharif, but for the golden profit that changed their fortunes, they turned to the Rabi maize.
Due to better management, sunlight, and controlled irrigation, Rabi maize often produces higher yields than Kharif.
| Farm Size | Kharif Season Cost (₹/hectare) | Rabi Season Cost (₹/hectare) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | ₹ 48,125.93 | ₹ 52,397.57 | | Small Farms | ₹ 51,002.89 | ₹ 55,444.93 | | Large Farms | ₹ 54,295.17 | ₹ 58,604.68 | maize rabi or kharif
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March to April (and into May in some northern regions). From that year on, the village adopted a new calendar
The application of nitrogen is also done in split doses: three splits for Kharif and four for Rabi, reflecting the latter's longer duration and higher yield goals.
Increased pest pressure from the Fall Armyworm due to high humidity. Variable monsoon patterns causing drought or sudden floods. ❄️ Maize as a Rabi Crop | Farm Size | Kharif Season Cost (₹/hectare)
Dominated by the monsoon cycle; heavily dependent on rainfall. Summary Comparison: Kharif Maize vs. Rabi Maize Kharif Maize Rabi Maize June – July October – November Harvest Time September – October March – May Yield Potential Moderate (2.5 – 4 tonnes/hectare) High (6 – 8+ tonnes/hectare) Water Source Southwest Monsoon Rainfall Assured Tube-well / Canal Irrigation Pest Risk Low to Moderate Crop Duration Shorter (100 - 115 days) Longer (140 - 180 days) Conclusion: The Ultimate All-Season Crop
Maize (Zea mays L.), a globally important cereal, is cultivated in both Kharif (rainy) and Rabi (winter) seasons in regions with suitable irrigation. Its adaptability, high yield potential, and multiple end-uses (food, feed, industrial) make it a key crop for food security and income generation.
Kharif remains the backbone of Indian maize production because it utilizes natural rainfall, making it more accessible to farmers without advanced irrigation systems. Conclusion
The table below summarises the most important differences between the two growing seasons: