2026 Planting Guide
Summer cropWhen to Plant Rice in Pakistan
Complete guide to growing rice in Pakistan 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 Pakistan.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
20°C (68°F) minimum
Growing Period
100-140 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 Pakistan.
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 Pakistan
These varieties have proven performance in Pakistan's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Super Basmati | Pakistan climate |
| 2 | IRRI-6 | Pakistan climate |
| 3 | PK 386 | Pakistan climate |
| 4 | Basmati 515 | Pakistan climate |
| 5 | KSK-133 | Pakistan climate |
Growing Tips for Pakistan
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Pakistan farmers.
Pakistan is world's #4 rice exporter — Basmati is premium crop
Transplant 25-30 day nursery seedlings at 22.5cm x 22.5cm
Punjab (Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Sialkot) and Sindh are major zones
Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) saves 20-30% water
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
Pakistan 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 Pakistan?
The optimal planting window for rice in Pakistan is June 1 to July 31. Soil temperature should reach at least 20°C (68°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 100-140 days.
What varieties of rice grow best in Pakistan?
The best varieties for Pakistan include Super Basmati, IRRI-6, PK 386, Basmati 515, KSK-133. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest rice in Pakistan?
The harvest window for rice in Pakistan is typically October 15 to December 15. The crop takes 100-140 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Punjab Agriculture Department, and FAO Pakistan. 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.