Which cereal crop is primarily cultivated in winter months?

Rye is primarily cultivated in winter months due to its hardiness and ability to thrive in cooler temperatures. It has a greater tolerance for cold compared to many other cereal crops, which allows it to be sown in the fall and overwintered to mature in the spring. This characteristic makes rye a popular choice for certain regions where conditions are not suitable for other cereals during these months.

Barley and wheat, although they can be grown in cooler seasons, are typically associated more with spring planting in many areas, particularly spring barley and spring wheat varieties. Oats are often sown in spring as well, making them less suited for winter cultivation. Hence, rye stands out among these options for its specific adaptation to winter cultivation.