Harvesting is the act or process of gathering a ripe
crop from the
fields.
Reaping is the cutting of
grain or
pulse for harvest, typically using a
scythe,
sickle, or
reaper. On smaller
farms with minimal
mechanization, harvesting is the most
labor-intensive activity of the growing season. On large mechanized farms, harvesting utilizes the most expensive and sophisticated
farm machinery, such as the
combine harvester. The term "harvesting" in general usage may include immediate
postharvest handling, including cleaning, sorting, packing, and cooling.