Fertilizer Doses in Paddy Crop
Paddy or rice crop is one of the most important crops grown in India and other Asian countries. Fertilizer management plays a key role in increasing the yield and quality of the crop. The nutrients required by the paddy crop are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), and zinc (Zn). Proper fertilization provides these nutrients to the crop, which helps in achieving optimal growth and development. In this article, we will discuss the fertilizer doses required for paddy crop cultivation.
Nitrogen (N)
Nitrogen is the most essential nutrient required by the paddy crop. It plays a crucial role in improving the vegetative growth, grain yield, and quality of rice. The nitrogen requirement of the paddy crop varies depending on the soil type, cultivar, and cropping system. In general, for an irrigated crop, the recommended dose of nitrogen is 120 to 150 kg per hectare. For rain-fed conditions, the recommended dose is 60 to 90 kg per hectare.
Phosphorus (P)
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient required for root development, flowering, and grain development in the paddy crop. The recommended dose of phosphorus for paddy crop cultivation is 60 to 80 kg per hectare.
Potassium (K)
Potassium is essential for improving the water use efficiency, disease resistance, and stress tolerance of the paddy crop. The recommended dose of potassium for paddy crop cultivation is 60 to 80 kg per hectare.
Sulfur (S)
Sulfur is an essential macronutrient required for the synthesis of proteins and enzymes in the paddy crop. The recommended dose of sulfur for paddy crop cultivation is 20 to 30 kg per hectare.
Zinc (Zn)
Zinc is an essential micronutrient required for the growth and development of the paddy crop. Zinc deficiency is widespread in many paddy-growing areas, and it can result in stunted growth, low yields, and poor grain quality. The recommended dose of zinc for paddy crop cultivation is 5 to 10 kg per hectare.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fertilizer management plays a crucial role in achieving optimal growth and yield of the paddy crop. The appropriate doses of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, and zinc must be used to provide the necessary nutrients to the crop. The recommended doses of these nutrients can vary depending on the soil type, cultivar, and cropping system. Therefore, farmers must consult with agriculture experts to determine the correct fertilizer doses for their paddy crop cultivation.