2026 Planting Guide
Summer cropWhen to Plant Rice in India
Complete guide to growing rice in India with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the rice growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
100-150 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing rice in India.
January - May
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
June - July
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
August - September
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
October - December
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
Best Rice Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pusa Basmati 1121 | India climate |
| 2 | Pusa 44 | India climate |
| 3 | IR 64 | India climate |
| 4 | Swarna (MTU 7029) | India climate |
| 5 | Samba Mahsuri | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
India is world's #2 rice producer and #1 exporter
Kharif season: transplant with monsoon onset
System of Rice Intensification (SRI) improves yield by 20-30%
Direct seeded rice (DSR) reduces water use and labor costs
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Stem borers
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Brown planthopper
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice blast fungus
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Leaf folder
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Rice bug
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside rice, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant rice in India?
The optimal planting window for rice in India is June 1 to July 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-150 days.
What varieties of rice grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Pusa Basmati 1121, Pusa 44, IR 64, Swarna (MTU 7029), Samba Mahsuri. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest rice in India?
The harvest window for rice in India is typically October 15 to December 31. The crop takes 100-150 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.