Green plants make their own food by photosynthesis; animals and humans cannot, so they depend directly or indirectly on plants. To feed a larger population, production, proper planning, management and distribution of food is needed. Agriculture has always been the backbone of our country's economy, and ever since the Green Revolution different types of crops have been cultivated to meet the increasing demand.
1. Types of Crops
By Season
| Category | Season | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Kharif crops | Rainy season (June to September) | Paddy, maize, soya bean, groundnut, cotton |
| Rabi crops | Winter season (October to March) | Wheat, gram, pea, mustard, linseed |
| Zaid crops (summer crops) | Summer season | Muskmelon, watermelon, cucumber |
By Utility
| Type | Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Food crops | Human consumption | Paddy, maize |
| Fodder crops | Livestock consumption | Sorghum, millets |
| Fibre crops | Cordage and textile | Cotton, hemp |
| Oil crops | Consumption or industrial uses on a large scale | Groundnut, sesame |
| Ornamental crops | Landscape gardening | Croton, Bougainvillea |