How Rice Grows

Rice is a semi-aquatic annual grass, indigenous to the tropical and semi-tropical areas of the world and can be grown naturally in coastal plains, tidal deltas and river basins. The growth cycle of the rice plant is 3-6 months, depending upon the variety and the environment.

The rice farmer begins preparing the land for planting in the fall and winter months. Planting is done in the early spring by airplane or ground equipment. Rice grows to maturity in 100 to 120 days. In late summer and early fall, the farmer harvests the crop using large combines to cut the stalks and thresh the grains. The rice is then dried to a moisture level that is suitable for storage.