As a crucial crop, basmati paddy has a high demand all over the world. Basmati rice is known for its unique aroma, long grains and textured taste. This means that, to succeed in cultivating the much-coveted rice, a farmer must be well-informed on all aspects of its cultivation, including the correct dosage of fertilizer to use.
Fertilizer is an essential element in rice cultivation. It provides vital nutrients for the rice plant’s growth, such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Basmati paddy, specifically, requires specific fertilizer doses to achieve optimal yields and ensure a good harvest.
During the vegetative phase of basmati paddy, 40 kg nitrogen and 20 kg phosphorous needs to be applied per acre of land. Nitrogen is crucial for the plant’s growth and development while phosphorus helps in the root growth and establishment of tillers. These nutrients improve stem elongation, increase the number of leaves and roots. They also enhance photosynthesis, improve plant vigour and help to improve the overall quality of the rice.
Once the plant grows and reaches its reproductive phase, the fertilizer doses also vary. During the early reproductive stage, 20 kg N and 20 kg P need to be applied per acre of land. At the flowering stage, farmers need to apply 20 kg nitrogen and 10 kg potassium per acre of land. The potassium content helps in proper flowering and improving the grain’s overall strength.
At the grain filling stage, which is the most crucial phase for the basmati paddy, the fertilizer requirement is 25 kg nitrogen and 25 kg potassium per acre of land. Nitrogen and potassium both play significant roles in the proper synthesis of their protein content which is a crucial factor that decides the quality of basmati rice.
Knowing the soil type, land fertility status, and basmati paddy variety will assist the farmer in determining the correct fertilizer doses. Without the correct fertilizer doses, the quantity and quality of the rice produced may not meet the market demand. Inappropriate and incorrect fertilizer doses will also lead to soil degradation, the development of resistance to pests and diseases and land erosion.
In conclusion, basmati paddy is a delicate crop that requires adequate nutrition to produce quality yields. Farmers must, therefore, ensure that they apply the right fertilizer dose throughout the different stages of the paddy growth cycle. Balancing the fertilizer nutrient requirements with the plant’s growth stage is key to achieving a successful harvest. With the right knowledge, farmers can optimize their fertilizer use, which plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of the rice and ultimately, the farmer’s financial well-being.