Sure, here’s an article on Fertilizer Dose in PR Rice Information:
Fertilizer is an essential component for any successful paddy rice farming. In Puerto Rico, where rice is a vital crop, proper fertilization management becomes even more important. It is the key to produce high-yielding and quality rice harvests.
Rice is a crop that requires a lot of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. With adequate application of these nutrients along with other micronutrients, farmers can help paddy rice plants grow stronger, healthier, and more productive. Here are some recommendations for fertilizer doses in Puerto Rican rice farming:
1. Nitrogen (N) – rice plants require the most amount of nitrogen compared to other nutrients. It is essential for plant growth and development. To achieve an optimal yield of around 5-7 metric tons per hectare, farmers should apply at least 120kg/ha of Nitrogen during the crop’s vegetative stage. Furthermore, additional 60 kg/ha of Nitrogen should be applied at the panicle initiation stage and at least 40 kg/ha 15 days before harvest.
2. Phosphorus (P) – this nutrient is vital for seedling establishment and root development. Applying at least 34 kg/ha during planting and another 26 kg/ha in flooding stage is recommended.
3. Potassium (K) – applying around 60 kg/ha of Potassium maximizes rice’s resistance to soil salinity. It helps plants develop strong stems and stalks, making them more capable of withstanding strong wind. An additional 20 kg/ha should be applied during the panicle initiation stage to support plant growth.
Apart from the essential macronutrients mentioned above, other nutrients such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) are also essential for optimal plant growth and yield. As a result, farmers must analyze the soil (before planting) to know which nutrients are lacking and their doses for application.
In conclusion, paddy rice farmers in Puerto Rico should pay closer attention to fertilizer management as a crucial element for high-yielding rice crops. It is vital to apply the right fertilizer dose, especially for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, at the correct growth stages. Additionally, attention to other micronutrient deficiency and crop management factors like water management, pest and disease prevention, and control will enhance a robust and productive yield for rice farmers.