How to Plant Rice in a Deep Water Rice Field

Rice is a staple food crop consumed by millions of people all over the world. Growing rice in deep water rice fields is a traditional farming method that is still used in many countries today. In this article, we will explain how to plant rice in a deep water rice field.

Preparing the Field

Before planting rice in a deep water rice field, it is important to prepare the field. The field must be leveled and cleared of all weeds and debris. Then, the field must be flooded with water. The water level should be at least 5 centimeters above the soil level. This is done to create the ideal growing environment for the rice.

Germinating the Rice Seeds

The next step is to germinate the rice seeds. This can be done in two ways. The first is to soak the rice seeds in water for 24 hours until they start to sprout. The second method is to spread the rice seeds on damp cloth or paper in a warm location until they sprout. Once the seeds have sprouted, they can be planted in the field.

Planting the Rice Seedlings

The rice seedlings are then planted in rows, with a spacing of around 20 centimeters between each plant. The seedlings must be planted at a depth of at least 3 centimeters, to ensure that they have enough water to grow. The soil around the seedlings must be gently packed down, to prevent them from being washed away by the water.

Maintaining the Rice Field

After planting the rice seedlings, the field must be kept flooded with water for the entire growing season. This ensures that the rice plants have enough water to grow. The water level should be maintained at around 20-30 centimeters above the soil level. Weeds and other unwanted plants must be removed regularly, to prevent them from competing with the rice plants for nutrients and water.

Harvesting the Rice

The rice is ready to harvest when the grains have turned yellow and the plant has started to dry out. The best time to harvest the rice is in the morning, when the air is cool and dry. The harvested rice is threshed to remove the grains from the stalks. The grains are then dried in the sun for a few days, before being stored in a cool and dry place.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting rice in a deep water rice field requires careful preparation, germination of the rice seeds, planting the rice seedlings, maintenance of the field, and harvesting the rice. With these steps, you can successfully grow your own rice in a deep water rice field.