Rice farming is the practice of cultivating rice, a staple food for more than half of the world's population. It typically takes place in flooded fields called paddy fields, which provide the necessary water for the rice plants to grow. Farmers prepare the land by tilling the soil and then planting rice seeds, either by hand or using machines. After planting, the fields are kept flooded to protect the young plants from weeds and pests. Farmers monitor the growth of the rice and manage water levels throughout the growing season. Once the rice is mature, it is harvested, dried, and processed for consumption.