In the plains and on some valley floors the land was already fairly level for planting. On hillsides terraces were first constructed, to retain soil and moisture. Picture from Clifford Plowing For annual crops the land was first plowed. The cycle of rain and dry seasons defined the time when various crops were planted and harvested. Grains Both wheat and barley were grown for bread, the staple food.
Wheat makes better dough, but needs good soil and water.
Barley tolerated poor soil and drought better. Since birds eat seeds and young plants, both human and inanimate scarecrows were used. Barley matured first, April to early May, wheat a month later. Threshing The sheaves were spread on a flat rock or prepared earth threshing-floor. Winnowing Tossing in the air allowed the wind to blow the chaff from the grain.