Monitoring shoots and nitrogen in rice crops (November 1990)

Geltch, J , Menzies, G Nott, R Moore, S

1990

This IREC Farmers Newsletters presents information on observing the progress of rice crops. The author states this is important for rice growers seeking yields of 12 tonnes/ha. It is vital to carefully observe their crops by measuring plant changes and takes sample for nitrogen and other testing. By undertaking this strict observations the grower can detect deficiencies at an earlier stage and make appropriate management decisions. This will then enable the grower to obtain the highest possible yields of high quality grain. The rate of changing shoot density and nitrogen around panicle initiation are discussed. The value of sampling crops before or at panicle initiation stage, shoot nitrogen and recommendations are also discussed. The recommendation for farmers seeking yields of 12 tonne/ha must be confident of crop nutrient status requirements and should not rely on one estimate of crop density and shoot nitrogen. Crops should be observed regularly and shoot samples counted an analysed at 65-70 days after sowing as well as at the PI stage.