Agriculture is the lifeblood of Dhamtari, with the city often referred to as part of the "Rice Bowl of Chhattisgarh." Paddy (rice) is the primary Kharif crop, extensively cultivated during the monsoon season. The robust network of dams and canals, particularly the Gangrel and Ravishankar Sagar projects, ensures excellent irrigation, allowing many farmers to cultivate a second (Rabi) crop, such as wheat, gram, pulses, and oilseeds.
Beyond staple crops, the region supports horticulture, growing vegetables and fruits that supply local markets and the state capital. Minor forest produce also plays a vital role in the rural agricultural economy, providing supplementary income to tribal and farming communities through the collection of Sal seeds, Chironji, and medicinal plants.