Fertilizer management is essential for paddy cultivation to improve tiller increase and greening. The right type and amount of fertilizer can promote healthy plant growth and increase crop yield. Here are some top fertilizer management practices for paddy cultivation.
1. Soil testing: Before determining the type and amount of fertilizer to use, conduct a soil test to evaluate the nutrient status of the soil. Soil testing can help determine the nutrient deficiencies and pH level of the soil. Based on the test results, suitable fertilizer can be selected to meet the specific nutrient requirements.
2. Nitrogen application: Nitrogen is critical for paddy cultivation as it promotes tiller and leaf growth. Excessive nitrogen can lead to lodging, which can reduce yield. So, apply nitrogen fertilizer in several stages during the growing season. To improve tiller and green growth, apply the first dose of nitrogen fertilizer in the seedling stage, and apply the remaining dosage in the tillering, booting and panicle initiation stages.
3. Phosphorus and potassium application: Phosphorus and potassium are vital for tiller increase and root growth, respectively. Apply a basal dose of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer before planting. Adequate potassium fertilizer in particular enhances paddy greening. The phosphorus and potassium fertilizer should be applied as per soil test recommendations.
4. Organic matter: Incorporate organic matter like compost, farmyard manure or green manure into the soil, which improves soil fertility, nutrient retention capacity and plant growth. While compost, farmyard manure are typically applied during the field preparation phase, green manure like Dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) or Sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea) are usually grown as cover crops before sowing.
5. Micronutrient management: Apart from major macronutrients (N, P, K), micronutrients like Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), and Manganese (Mn) are also important for paddy cultivation. Deficiencies of these nutrients can cause low tillering, and slow growth. Fertigation with micronutrients through a drip irrigation system every 15-20 days is beneficial as the nutrients are closely targeted to the plant roots and are absorbed effectively.
In conclusion, management of fertilizer is crucial for paddy cultivation. Implementing these best practices can result in healthy tiller and greening growth, leading to increased yields and quality produce.