How long before monsoon should I start kharif crops?
Start transplanted kharif crops (tomato, chilli, brinjal) 4–6 weeks before monsoon for ready-to-plant seedlings. Direct-sown crops (okra, gourds, beans, cowpea) can be sown at first rain or up to 2 weeks before monsoon if soil is moist. Avoid starting too early — seedlings outgrow trays in heat.