When does the obligation of Zakat become due for harvested crops (grain and fruit)?
Chapter on Zakat on Crops and Fruits
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
The obligation of Zakat for grain becomes due when it has hardened (*ishtadda*), and for fruit when its ripeness (*salah*) becomes apparent. The obligation is established only once the fruit is collected into the storage area (*al-Jarib*) or the grain is gathered in the threshing floor (*al-Baydar*). If the fruit or grain perishes before this point without the owner's negligence or transgression, Zakat is not due. If the owner disposes of the crop after the obligation has become due, the Zakat obligation is not waived, similar to disposing of livestock (*al-Sa'imah*) after the year has passed.
Supporting text
Ibn Abi Musa stated that the Zakat for grain becomes due on the day of harvest, based on the verse: {And give its due on the day of its harvest} (Quran 6:141). If the owner disposes of the fruit or grain before the obligation is due, no Zakat is due, as this resembles disposing of livestock before the year has passed.