Article: Fertilizer Dose at the Time of Paddy (Jhona) Transplanting
Paddy, also known as rice, is one of the most essential crops globally, providing sustenance for millions of people. Proper fertilization techniques are crucial during the paddy cultivation process to ensure healthy plant growth, increased yield, and sustainable farming practices. Applying the correct fertilizer dose at the time of paddy transplanting, particularly the Jhona stage, plays a significant role in achieving these goals.
The Jhona stage refers to the transplanted seedlings of paddy when they are around 15-20 days old. At this critical stage, paddy plants require specific nutrients to establish healthy root systems, promote robust vegetative growth, and prepare for the subsequent stages of development, including flowering and grain formation. Here is a comprehensive guide on the fertilizer dose to apply during paddy transplanting:
1. Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is a vital macro-nutrient that plays a crucial role in promoting the green coloration and overall growth of paddy plants. At the time of transplanting, applying nitrogen-based fertilizers is essential to provide the necessary nutrients for seedling establishment. Typically, a dose of 25-30 kg of nitrogen per hectare is recommended during the Jhona stage.
2. Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus is essential for paddy plants as it aids in root development, early growth, and overall vigor. Before transplanting, applying a phosphorus-based fertilizer is beneficial to ensure proper establishment of the seedlings. A recommended dose of 12-15 kg of phosphorus per hectare is advisable during the Jhona stage.
3. Potassium (K): Potassium is another vital nutrient required by paddy plants for water regulation, disease resistance, and improved overall plant health. At the time of transplanting, applying potassium-based fertilizers is crucial to fortify the seedlings against stress and enhance their growth. A recommended dose of 12-15 kg of potassium per hectare is generally recommended during the Jhona stage.
4. Micronutrients: In addition to the primary nutrients mentioned above, paddy plants also require various micronutrients, including zinc, iron, manganese, copper, molybdenum, and boron, among others. These micronutrients ensure optimal plant growth and development. Incorporating a balanced micronutrient fertilizer blend into the soil at the time of transplanting is advised to address any deficiencies that may limit paddy productivity.
It is crucial to note that the fertilizer doses mentioned above are general recommendations and may vary depending on soil type, region, and specific nutrient deficiency. Consulting with local agriculture experts or conducting soil tests can provide more accurate recommendations tailored to your specific conditions.
To apply the fertilizers correctly, a common practice is to divide the recommended dose into two halves. Apply one half directly into the soil while transplanting the seedlings and the second half around 25-30 days after transplanting. This strategy ensures continuous availability of nutrients during the critical early growth stages and minimizes the risk of nutrient imbalances.
In conclusion, using the proper fertilizer dose at the time of paddy transplanting, particularly during the Jhona stage, is paramount to achieve optimal growth, yield, and plant health. By ensuring adequate supplies of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and essential micronutrients, farmers can create ideal conditions for healthy paddy plants, leading to increased productivity and sustainable farming practices.