As paddy (jhona) transplanting season approaches, farmers across the country start preparing their fields for the cultivation of rice. Fertilizer plays a vital role in the growth and development of crops, and the timing and dosage of fertilizer application can significantly impact crop yield. Here’s what you need to know about fertilizer dose at the time of paddy transplanting.
First and foremost, soil testing is essential to determine the nutrient content of the soil. An adequate analysis of soil samples can help farmers determine the appropriate fertilizer dose for their crop. Based on the analysis report, farmers can choose the appropriate blend of fertilizers that contains the right balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) for their paddy crop.
Typically, the recommended dose of fertilizer for paddy transplanting is 120-140 kg NPK per hectare. However, the amount of fertilizer needed may vary depending on the soil quality, variety of paddy, and farming practices. For instance, inorganic fertilizers require higher amounts of organic fertilizers, while direct seeding of paddy requires less fertilizer than transplanting.
During paddy transplanting, farmers should apply a basal dose of fertilizer at the time of land preparation. This basal dose should be applied uniformly to the soil to replenish the nutrients that were depleted during the previous crop. The basal dose should contain 40-60 kg NPK per hectare, and it should be applied two weeks before transplanting.
After transplanting, farmers should apply another dose of fertilizer to promote the growth and development of the paddy crop. This dose should contain 80-100 kg NPK per hectare, and it should be applied in two splits. The first split of fertilizer should be applied 10-12 days after transplanting, while the second split should be applied 30-35 days after transplanting.
It’s important to note that excessive use of fertilizers can have adverse effects on soil health and the environment. Overuse of fertilizers can lead to soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and water pollution. Therefore, farmers should use fertilizers judiciously and follow recommended dosage and application practices.
In conclusion, fertilizers are a crucial component of paddy cultivation, and the right dosage and application practices can significantly impact crop yield. Farmers should perform soil tests to determine the appropriate fertilizer dose for their crop and apply basal and split doses of fertilizer at the appropriate time. By following these best practices, farmers can maximize their crop yields while minimizing the adverse effects of fertilizer use on soil health and the environment.