Write the correct sequence of steps undertaken for farming.

The farming process follows a systematic sequence that begins well before seeds touch the soil and continues through post-harvest handling. The cycle starts with soil preparation (tilling/ploughing), which loosens compacted earth, improves aeration, brings nutrients to the surface, and facilitates root penetration. This is followed by leveling the field to ensure uniform water distribution and prevent waterlogging in low spots. Next comes sowing, where quality seeds are planted at appropriate depths, spacing, and timing based on the crop and season. After sowing, irrigation provides the moisture necessary for germination and growth, with frequency and quantity adjusted to crop stage, soil type, and weather conditions. Manuring and fertilization replenish soil nutrients—manure added during soil preparation and fertilizers applied in splits during the growing season based on crop requirements.

Throughout the growing period, weeding removes unwanted plants competing for nutrients, water, and light, typically conducted 2-3 times depending on weed pressure. Simultaneously, crop protection measures address pests and diseases through monitoring, biological controls, or judicious pesticide application when economic thresholds are crossed. As crops mature, harvesting at the right stage ensures maximum yield and quality—too early results in immature grain, too late causes shattering losses. Post-harvest operations include threshing (separating grain from chaff), winnowing (cleaning grain using wind), drying to safe moisture levels, and finally storage in appropriate structures that protect from pests, moisture, and rodents. This sequence may vary slightly depending on the specific crop—for example, transplanted rice includes a nursery raising step before field preparation—but the fundamental progression from soil preparation through protected storage remains consistent across most agricultural systems.