All Seasonal Vegetables in Pakistan

Seasonal Vegetables of Pakistan: Overview

Pakistan’s agriculture is heavily influenced by the country’s unique climate patterns and seasonal changes. Seasonal Vegetables are one of the most important elements in this cycle. They play an essential role for both the rural economy and rural livelihoods. Understanding the vegetable seasons allows farmers to plan more efficiently, and consumers can enjoy locally-grown produce all year round.

In Pakistan, season vegetables are classified into two main growing seasons.

1. Rabi season (Winter).Spanning between October and March. Rabi crops tend to be grown in the cooler months. The vegetables sown during this time are harvested between March and May. This is because they rely more on rainfall than irrigation. Rabi vegetables commonly grown include spinach, carrots and cauliflower.
2. Kharif season (Summer Season):
   Kharif vegetables are grown from April to September . They thrive in humid, warm conditions, and heavily rely on irrigation and monsoon rainfall. This season is a time of abundance for crops such as okras, eggplants, bitter gourds, tomatoes and chillies.

There are two transitional periods in Pakistan, which occur between the two primary seasons.

• Zaid Rabi (Late Winter/Spring: March-April):
  After the Rabi harvest, but before Kharif sowing starts. This includes vegetables that grow quickly, such as spinach lettuce and coriander.
• Zaid Khrif (Late summer/autumn, September-October:
  This season is after the Kharif harvest, but before Rabi planting. This allows the planting of early winter crops such as peas and cauliflower.

These Zaid seasons, although brief, are very valuable in terms of maximizing the use of land and increasing food availability. The dominant category of vegetables in Pakistan is the Rabi and Kharif season as these represent the bulk of the agricultural production.

Vegetables for the Rabi Season in Pakistan

(Winter: October – March)
Sowing: October–December | Harvesting: March–May

In Pakistan, the Rabi season is an important growing period for a variety of vegetables. They are usually sown during the cooler months and require irrigation. They are harvested from late winter to early Spring. Here is a breakdown of for each vegetable that are commonly grown in this season:

 Leafy Vegetables

Spinach (پالک)

• Price per 1Kg :- PKR 50-140 per kg

Spinach is an extremely nutritious vegetable that is rich in calcium, iron and Vitamin A and C. It is grown in Punjab and Sindh. It is used in many dishes, including Palak Gosht, Saag. Spinach supports eye health, immunity and bone health.

Fenugreek (میتھی)

• Price per 1Kg :- PKR 110-250 per kg
• Methi Dana Price in Pakistan :- ₨ 1,400 per kg

Fenugreek, also known as winter herb, is grown for the leaves and seeds. It’s used in curries and parathas. It is rich in magnesium, iron and fiber. This helps to improve digestion and manage blood sugar. It grows best on loamy soils that receive adequate irrigation.

Mustard Greens (سرسوں کا ساگ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 80-140 per kg

In Pakistan, mustard greens have a cultural significance, particularly in Punjab where makki-ki-roti is served with sarson-ka saag . These greens are high in calcium and Vitamin K, as well as antioxidants. They grow best in cold temperatures and require well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

Coriander (دھنیا)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 200-300 per kg

Coriander is also called cilantro. It’s used both as a spice and as an herb. Fresh leaves of coriander are added to curries, chutneys and garnishes. It is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Both commercial farms and home gardens grow it.

Lettuce (سلاد)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 150-350 per kg

Lettuce has a high water content and low calories. It also has a crisp texture. It is grown quickly in cooler climates and used for salads and sandwiches. Vitamin A in this vegetable is good for skin and eyes.

Mint (پودینہ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 250-350 per kg

The Rabi season is the best time to grow mint. It can be used to make teas, raitas and chutneys. Mint is known for its digestive properties. It grows best in moist soil and partial shade.

Celery (سیلری)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 150-300 per kg

Celery has crisp stalks that are used in salads and soups. Celery is low in calories and rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.

Brassica Vegetables (Cabbage Family)

Cabbage (بند گوبھی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 50-200 per kg

It grows best at cool temperatures, and should be harvested before the temperature rises. It can be used for curries, salads and stir-fries. Cabbage is rich in Vitamin C, fiber and supports digestion. It also boosts immunity.

Cauliflower (گوبھی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 80-130 per kg

Cauliflowers are a popular vegetable in Pakistani homes. It needs cool temperatures and good irrigation. It is a nutrient-dense vegetable that contains antioxidants, Vitamin C, and is commonly used to make aloo gobi.

Broccoli (بروکلی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 300-500 per kg

Broccoli is becoming more popular in urban diets, even though it’s not native. It contains Vitamins C, A and K, which are cancer-fighting. It is grown mainly in the upper Punjab and hills areas, read more…

Root & Tuber Vegetables

Carrot (گاجر)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR  110-230 per kg

Carrots grow best in soils with sandy loam and at cold temperatures. They are a rich source of vitamin A (beta-carotene) and improve skin and vision health. You can eat them raw, cook them in gajar-ka-halwa or use pickles.

Turnip (شلجم)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 150-350 per kg

During the Rabi period, turnips are grown in Punjab and KPK. Turnips are rich in Vitamin C and are fibrous. They can be used to make soups, pickles, and stews.

Radish (مولی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 80-130 per kg

Radish is a Rabi crop that matures quickly and can be harvested as early as the beginning of January. It aids in digestion and detoxification. It can be eaten raw, cooked or stuffed into mooli parantha. It is also used in pickles and salads.

Beetroot (چقندر)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 150-200 per kg

Beetroot is a deep red vegetable with a high iron and folate concentration. It detoxifies the liver and improves blood circulation. It is often juiced or added into salads. It grows best in cool weather, well-drained soil.

Ginger (ادرک)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 150-750 per kg

In Pakistani cuisine, ginger is used for its pungent taste and medicinal properties. Although ginger is not a fruit or vegetable according to botanical terms, it is considered a vegetable when used in agricultural and culinary contexts. In Pakistan, ginger is primarily harvested from November to February.

Garlic (لہسن)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 700-1100 per kg

Garlic is a bulbous vegetable that is known for its strong aromatic flavor and essential role in Pakistani traditional dishes. It is usually harvested and cultivated in the winter, between November and February, read more

Mushroom (کھمبی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 650-1150 per kg

The mushroom is a fungus, not a plant. It does not fall into the category of fruit or vegetable. Due to its similarity in use to vegetables when cooking, it is often referred to as a culinary veggie. In Pakistan, the winter season is when mushrooms are harvested, usually from October to February.

Onion (پیاز)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 100-160 per kg

The onion is a main ingredient in almost all Pakistani dishes. It is a winter vegetable in Pakistan. The main harvesting season for the winter crop (autumn crop) is from October to November, read more

Potato (آلو)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 70-100 per kg

The potato is a popular root vegetable in Pakistan. It is grown during the winter, especially between December to February. The main harvesting season falls between April and March, read more

Turmeric (ہلدی)

Powdered Turmeric Price per 1Kg :- PKR 800-1400 per kg

Turmeric is a brightly yellow rhizome that is used primarily as a spice. It’s anti-inflammatory properties are well known. Turmeric is a vegetable, despite its common use as a spice. In Pakistan, the turmeric harvest is from December to February.

Yam (Jimikand / رکھی / کنڈ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 650-1100 per kg

Yam is a starchy tuber that can be used in many traditional recipes. It’s also called Jimikand in some places. In Pakistan, yams are harvested during the winter, particularly from December to February.

Leguminous Vegetables

Peas (مٹر)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 180-350 per kg

Peas are a popular winter legume. Peas are high in fiber and protein. They are used in many dishes including rice, gravies and samosas.

Broad Beans (بڑے پھلیاں)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 160–220 per kg

Also known as fava bean, they are only grown in colder climates. They are rich in iron and folate which helps in the production of red blood cells. Broad beans can be eaten boiled, stir-fried or with spices.

Green Beans (ہری پھلیاں)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR  150–205 per kg

Green beans are easily grown in mild winter temperatures. They are also harvested early. Low in calories and high on fiber, they are a healthy food. They are good sources of Vitamins C, A, and K when used in soups and mixed vegetable dishes.

Additional Notes:

• Early Harvest Crops Radish, spinach and mustard greens are all crops that can be harvested in January.
• Late Harvest Crops : Cabbage and peas are mature by February or march.
• Climate requirements: These plants grow best in Punjab and upper Sindh with proper watering, and cool temperatures.
• Nutritional benefits: Rabi is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can improve your health during winter.

Kharif Season Vegetables in Pakistan

(Summer: April – September)
Sowing: April–June | Harvesting: July–September

Kharif vegetables thrive in warm temperatures. They rely heavily on monsoon rainfall and water irrigation systems. These vegetables are consumed in Pakistan during the summer and play an important role both in home gardening and commercial agriculture.

Fruiting Vegetables

Okra / Ladyfinger (بھنڈی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 130–260 per kg

Okra is a favorite in Pakistani food. It grows well in humid and high temperatures. It needs fertile, well drained soil. Okra is known for its fiber content, which helps regulate blood sugar. It’s used in dishes such as bhindi masala and . It is also high in Vitamin C and Folate. read more

Brinjal / Eggplant (بینگن)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 80-160 per kg

Eggplant loves heat and thrives in soil that is loamy. It also needs full sunlight. It is widely grown in Punjab, Sindh and other parts of Pakistan. It’s rich in antioxidants and fiber. It’s used to make dishes like baigan bharta, and bagan aloo. It helps maintain heart health and lower cholesterol levels. read more

Bottle Gourd (لوکی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 110–160 per kg

The bottle gourd is also known as Lauki. It is a vegetable that is rich in water and ideal for hydration during hot weather. It is used to aid digestion in dishes like lauki-dal and lauki-gosht. It grows best in sandy loam soil and requires regular irrigation.

Sponge Gourd (توری)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 180–220 per kg

Sponge gourd is a fast-growing plant that grows in warm climates. It needs lots of sunlight. It is light and easy to digest. It can be used in dishes such as tori curry or tomato aloo. It is good for digestion, helps cool the body and contains Vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Tinda Gourd (ٹنڈا)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR  60 – 120 per kg

tinda , also known as Indian round gourd , is commonly used in summer diets due to its cooling properties. It grows best in humid soil and warm climates. It is used in curries and stews, and has a high water content, fiber and Vitamin A. read more

Pumpkin (کدو)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 145-170 per kg

The pumpkin is a climbing plant that is widely grown during the Kharif period. It is low in calories, high in Vitamins E and C, and is used in dishes such as kadu Gosht or kadu Sabzi. It is good for the eyesight and immunity. It prefers fertile soil that drains well.

Bitter Gourd (کریلا)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 140 – 170 per kg

Known for its sharp bitterness, karela is a summer vegetable famous for its blood-sugar-regulating properties. It is grown in warm climates and gets plenty of sun. It’s used to make dishes like Karela Qeema. It is high in antioxidants, Vitamin C and plant insulin.

Tomato (ٹماٹر)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 100-450 per kg

Although tomatoes can be grown in other seasons, with care, they remain a Kharif crop. They need rich soil and constant watering. Tomatoes are high in potassium, Vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. They are used in almost all Pakistani curries. read more

Chili (مرچ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 300-800 per kg

Chilies thrive in hot weather, and they are best when exposed to sunlight and moisture. Pakistan produces green and red chillies, which can be used fresh or dried. They are rich in Vitamin C and stimulate metabolism and appetite. read more

Capsicum / Sweet Peppers (شملہ مرچ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 100-300 per kg

Capsicum thrives in warm months, and is also increasingly grown in greenhouses. It is used in Chinese food, salads and stuffed dishes. It’s available in red, green, and yellow. It’s rich in Vitamin A and antioxidants. read more

Squash (سکوائش)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 210-410 per kg

Squash varieties like zucchini need lots of sunlight and warm weather to thrive. It is used in soups, light sautes and mixed vegetables. It’s a low calorie vegetable that is packed with Vitamin A, potassium and is ideal for weight loss.

Artichoke (آرٹی چوک)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 400–600 per kg

Artichokes, though less common in rural farming, are grown under controlled conditions in Pakistan. They require warm temperatures and well drained soil. Artichokes contain a lot of nutrients that are good for digestion and liver health. They are often used in salads, continental dishes, and gourmet salads.

Corn (مکئی / بھٹہ)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 80-100 per kg

While corn is technically a grain it is consumed fresh and used as a vegetable. This is especially true for roasted or boiled varieties. In Pakistan, the summer crop of corn is harvested between July-October. read more

Arum (Arvi / اروی)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 210–300 per kg

Arum is also known as Arvi (in Urdu). It is a root veggie that is high in starch. It is commonly used in curries and stir fries. It is harvested in Pakistan from June to September.

Onion (پیاز)

The onion is a main ingredient in almost all Pakistani dishes. It is a bulbous vegetable that is also cultivated in Pakistan during the summer season. The main harvesting season for the summer crop (spring) is from April to May. read more

Potato (آلو)

The potato is a popular root vegetable in Pakistan. It is grown during the winter, especially between December to February. The main harvesting season falls between April and March. read more

Other Vegetables

Lemon (لیموں)

Price per 1Kg :- PKR 250-400 per kg

In Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan, lemon trees are abundant during the summer. Lemons are high in Vitamin C and improve immunity. They also support skin health. Their juice can be used in drinks and salads. The zest is added to various recipes. read more

Note

• Heat Tolerant Crops Most Kharif vegetables can tolerate high temperatures, but they require constant watering during dry spells.
• Zaid-Kharif Crops : Some vegetables, such as tomatoes and chillies , are also grown during the Zaid-Kharif period from late summer to early fall depending on regional practices and climatic conditions.
• Regional Cultivation These vegetables are grown in Punjab, Sindh and parts of KPK, Balochistan, where water is available.