AGR – 336

PRACTICAL CROP PRODUCTION

–
(KHARIF CROPS)

SUBMITTED TO-
Dr. Santosh Basavant Korav
SuBMITTED BY-
Neerudi jaya Chandrika –
12222003
 Yeshi chomu – 12220385
Vishal Malakar – 12203780
INTRODUCTION
TOPIC- Modern and ongoing practices of rice
nursery preparation and its management.

RICE
Botanical name – Oryza sativa.
Chromosome no. = 2n (24)
Family – Poaceae.

Rice (Oryza sativa) is one of the most essential crops globally, serving as a staple food for
over half of the world's population. It is a primary source of calories and nutrition in many
Asian, African, and Latin American countries. Rice cultivation is not only critical for food
security but also supports millions of livelihoods, particularly in rural communities where
rice farming is the backbone of the economy.

Key Requirements for Rice Cultivation

Rice thrives in warm, humid climates and requires a steady supply of water, making it ideal
for regions with abundant rainfall or irrigated water systems. Traditional rice fields are often
flooded, which helps control weeds and pests, but modern cultivation methods also support
rice growth in rainfed and upland environments with appropriate water management.

Methods of Rice Cultivation

Several methods are used to cultivate rice, adapted to various environmental conditions:
1. Transplanting: Seedlings are raised in a nursery and later transplanted to the main
field. Common in water-abundant areas, transplanting promotes healthy growth.
2. Direct Seeding: Seeds are sown directly in the field, a method gaining popularity in
areas where labor is limited.

3. System of Rice Intensification (SRI): This approach emphasizes reduced water usage,
wider spacing, and young seedlings to boost yields with lower environmental impact .
Introduction to Nursery Bed for Rice Cultivation

A nursery bed is a prepared plot where rice seeds are initially sown and grown into young
seedlings before being transplanted into the main field. This stage is crucial in rice
cultivation, especially in areas where transplanting is the preferred method. Growing rice in a
nursery bed allows farmers to provide controlled conditions that promote strong, healthy
seedling growth, leading to better establishment in the main field and potentially higher
yields.
Importance of the Nursery Bed –
 Better Germination Rates: The controlled environment encourages faster and more
uniform germination.
 Efficient Use of Resources: Using a smaller, confined area for early growth
minimizes water, fertilizer, and labor costs.
 Reduced Weed Pressure: Weeding is easier in the nursery bed, so rice seedlings
experience less competition before they are transplanted.
 Selection of Healthy Seedlings: Farmers can select only healthy, robust seedlings,
improving the quality of the crop.

Types of Nursery Bed-

1. Dry bed Nursery
2. Wet bed Nursery
3. Dapog method
4. Sri ( Systematic of Rice Intensification)
5. Bubble tray method
6. Modified bubble tray method
7. Frame method.

Using a nursery bed is a fundamental part of rice farming, especially in regions where
transplanting is practiced. By giving seedlings a strong start, the nursery bed method
contributes to better crop establishment, healthier plants, and increased yields.
1. Dry bed Nursery- It is used to raise rice seedlings in regions with limited water
availability or for rice varieties that don’t require continuous submergence. In this
method, seeds are sown in a dry, well-prepared bed and
watered as needed.

Bed preparation –
Selection of site-
 Choose a location that is convenient for irrigation and
drainage, ideally close to the main field for easy
transplanting.
 The site should be free from shade to ensure maximum
sunlight for the seedlings.
Soil preparation -
 Plow the soil to a fine texture, ensuring the soil is loose and
free of large clods.
 Level the surface to prevent waterlogging and ensure even
germination.
 If possible, enrich the soil with organic matter, such as
compost, to provide essential nutrients to young seedlings.
Nursery bed layout-
 Soak seeds in water for 24 hours, followed by a 24-hour
incubation to improve germination.
 Broadcast seeds evenly over the bed surface or sow in rows if
preferred. Maintain a seed rate of about 3–5 kg per 100 square
meters.
Fertilization -
 Apply a basal fertilizer dose rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium (such as NPK 15-15-15) before sowing, or top-
dress during early growth.
 Use approximately 1–1.5 kg of NPK fertilizer per 100 square meters, adjusting based
on soil fertility.

Water management -
 Lightly irrigate the bed immediately after sowing to ensure soil moisture for
germination.
 Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering, which can lead to waterlogging or fungal
infections.
 Irrigate regularly until seedlings are ready for transplanting, adjusting frequency
based on weather and soil moisture.
 Weed and pest control-
 Rouging before bed preparation and after bed preparation.
 Natural predators like lady bird beetle and lacewings can be used to kill the insect
pest.
 Handpicking of pests.

ADVANTAGES
 Conservation of water, it uses significantly less water compared to wet bed nursery.
 It reduces seed mortality.
 It promotes healthier root development.
 It can be mechanized, reducing labor cost and increasing efficiency.
 Improves soil structure, reducing soil erosion.

DISADVANTAGES
 Higher initial investment.
 Improper soil management can lead to soil salinization.
 It is primarily used for rice and may not be suitable for other crops.
 It may limit seedling growth due to reduced water availability.
 It is vulnerable to drought.

2.Wet bed Nursery - Is commonly used in areas with abundant water availability, such
as irrigated lowlands. In this approach, rice seeds are sown in a waterlogged bed, allowing for
efficient use of water, reduced weeds, and well-developed seedlings ready for transplanting.

Bed preparation
Selection of site –
 Choose a location with easy access to water, ideally near the main field to facilitate
easy transplanting.
 Ensure the site receives adequate sunlight and is protected from strong winds.
Soil Preparation-
 Plow and harrow the soil thoroughly to achieve a fine, even texture, which promotes
better root development.
 Level the surface of the bed to ensure uniform water distribution, preventing both
waterlogging and dry patches.

Layout of Nursery Beds-

 Divide the nursery plot into beds, typically 1–1.5 meters in width, with 0.3–0.5 meters
of space between beds to allow for water management and access.
 Each bed should be around 5–10 cm in height above ground level to ensure proper
water retention.
Fertilization -
  Apply a basal dose of fertilizer before sowing. Commonly, 1–1.5 kg of NPK (15-115)
fertilizer is used per 100 square meters of nursery bed.
 Organic matter such as compost or well-decomposed manure can also be added to
enhance soil fertility.
Seed Treatment and Sowing-
 Soak rice seeds in water for 24 hours, then incubate them for another 24 hours to
promote rapid germination.
 After preparing the seeds, broadcast them evenly over the wet bed. A seed rate of
around 3–5 kg per 100 square meters is recommended.
 Sow seeds densely to reduce weed growth and maximize space.
Water Management-
 After sowing, keep the bed flooded with about 2–3 cm of water. This water level
promotes germination and protects seedlings from pests and weeds.
 Maintain consistent water levels, gradually increasing to about 5 cm as the seedlings
grow, but ensure the bed doesn’t dry out or get overly saturated.
Weed and Pest Control-
 Weeds are naturally minimized in a waterlogged environment, but if needed,
manually remove any visible weeds.
 Monitor for pests and diseases, especially fungal infections that thrive in wet
conditions. Use biological control or pesticides sparingly if needed.
 Natural predator like lady bird beetle or lacewings.
ADVANTAGES
 Improved seedling growth, it provides optimal condition for seedling growth.
 Increased seedling survival, it reduces transpiration stress.
 Reduces soil erosion.
 Efficient weed control.
 Enhanced root development.
 Automated irrigation system reduces labor requirement.
DISADVANTAGES
 Waterlogging risks.
 Increased disease susceptibility.
 Higher water requirement.
 Primarily suitable for rice crop only.
 Increased fertilizer usage.

3.Dapog method – Is a unique technique for preparing rice seedlings, initially developed
in the Philippines. This method is especially useful for areas with limited nursery space, and
it allows for quicker seedling growth, usually within 12–15 days. It’s also efficient in terms of
water, labor, and time, making it ideal for smallholder farmers or areas with a high demand
for rice transplants.
Bed preparation –
Selection of the Site-
 Choose a flat, level area close to a water source for easy watering.
 Ensure the area receives sufficient sunlight and is sheltered from strong winds, which
could damage seedlings.
Prepare the Nursery Bed-
  Create a nursery bed using a plastic sheet or banana leaves laid flat on the soil surface
to prevent seed-soil contact.
 Place the sheet on a leveled, compacted soil base, as the Dapog method does not
require direct soil planting.
 Moisten the plastic sheet or banana leaves to help seeds stick and encourage
germination.
Seed Preparation-
 Soak rice seeds in water for 24 hours, then incubate them for another 24 hours. This
pre-germination step ensures quicker, uniform germination once seeds are sown.
 Spread the pre-germinated seeds evenly across the moistened plastic or leaf surface, at
a density of about 3 kg per square meter.
Layering and Pressing-
 After spreading the seeds, cover them with a thin layer of fine soil, just enough to
hold moisture.
 Gently press down on the seeds and soil layer with a wooden board or roller to ensure
they stick together, forming a compact seed mat. This pressing also promotes root
bonding among the seeds.
Water Management-
 Water the nursery bed lightly and frequently, keeping the bed moist but not flooded.
 Avoid overwatering, which can cause fungal growth, but ensure the seeds are
consistently moist to support germination and growth.
 During the later stages, increase the water level slightly as seedlings grow, but still
prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization (Optional)
 Lightly apply a dilute solution of urea or a balanced
NPK fertilizer to boost early seedling growth if
necessary.
 Fertilizer should be applied sparingly to avoid burning
the seedlings and excessive root growth.
Seedling Care and Maintenance -
 Monitor the nursery for any signs of pests, diseases, or
nutrient deficiencies. Early control is easier due to the
compact nature of the nursery.
 Avoid walking on or disturbing the seedling mat, as
seedlings are fragile and easily damaged.
Transplanting Preparation -
 After 12–15 days, the seedlings will form a dense mat and reach an appropriate size
for transplanting (about 10–15 cm in height).
 Carefully lift the seedling mat and cut it into small, manageable sections or clumps.
 These clumps can be transplanted directly into the main field without disrupting roots,
as they are already bonded in the mat.
ADVANTAGES
 Increased yield- it can increase yield by 20-30% due to healthy seedling.
 Water saving.
 Labor saving.
 Improves soil structure, therefore reducing soil erosion.
 Better weed control.
 Reduce seed rate and faster growth.
DISADVANTAGES
 Higher initial investment.
 It is suitable for small to medium-sized field.
 Requires careful nursery management.
 Seedling may experience transpiration shock.
 Disease susceptibility.
 Requires specialized equipment.
 It is weather dependent.

4.SRI ( System of Rice Intensification ) - Is an innovative rice cultivation method

aimed at increasing yield while reducing water and resource use. Unlike traditional rice-
growing methods, SRI focuses on growing young, single seedlings in wider spacing to
promote root and tiller growth. Preparing an SRI nursery bed requires specific steps to
ensure healthy, vigorous seedlings that are ready for transplanting after only 8–15 days.
Bed preparation-
Selection of site-
 Choose a site near the main field, accessible to irrigation and well-drained to avoid
waterlogging.
 Ensure the area receives full sunlight, as shaded areas may result in weak seedlings.
Soil Preparation-
 Loosen the soil by plowing or tilling to a fine texture, which promotes root
penetration and seedling establishment.
 Enrich the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-decomposed manure, to
provide essential nutrients for early growth.
 Level the soil surface to ensure even water distribution and prevent pooling.
Nursery Bed Layout-
 Create a small, raised nursery bed, approximately 1 meter wide, for ease of
management.
 Allow space between beds for drainage and access. Typically, beds are about 1–1.5
meters wide with a 0.3–0.5 meter space in between.
Seed Preparation and Sowing-
 Soak rice seeds in water for 24 hours and then incubate them for another 24 hours to
encourage sprouting.
 Sow seeds thinly and evenly on the prepared bed to avoid overcrowding and ensure
each seedling has ample room to grow.
 The seed rate for SRI nursery beds is lower than traditional nurseries, often around 5–
10 kg per hectare of the main field, as only one seedling per hill is transplanted.
Fertilization-
 Apply a small amount of organic fertilizer or compost to the bed to support initial
growth, avoiding excessive use of chemical fertilizers that might damage young
seedlings.
 The nutrient-rich soil provides a strong foundation for seedlings, enhancing their
growth rate and vigor.
 Water Management-
 Keep the nursery bed moist but not flooded; optimal moisture promotes root health
and prevents waterlogged conditions that could harm seedlings.
 Lightly irrigate as necessary, adjusting for weather conditions. Avoid creating
standing water on the nursery bed.
Weed and Pest Management-
 Weed manually or use a light mulch to suppress weeds,
ensuring seedlings do not compete for nutrients.
 Monitor for pests or diseases, as young seedlings are
vulnerable to infections. Address issues promptly using
organic or minimal interventions as possible.
Transplanting Preparation-
 Seedlings are ready for transplanting after 8–15 days, when
they reach the 2-leaf stage (about 10–15 cm in height).
 Prior to transplanting, gently irrigate the bed to ease the removal of seedlings and
minimize root damage.
 Carefully lift seedlings with roots intact for transplanting into the main field, using
only one seedling per hill with wider spacing (about 25 cm apart).
ADVANTAGE
 Increase yield- it increases yield by 20-50% due to healthier root system.
 Water saving- it reduces water usage by 30-50%.
 Improved soil health.
 Reduced seed rate- it requires about 80-90% less seeds.
 Enhanced crop resilience, tolerating stress better, due to stronger root system.
 Lower chemical usage.
DISADVANTAGE
 Higher labor requirement.
 High initial investment.
 Skill and knowledge is required.
 Limited scalability, suitable for small-scale farming.
 It is weather dependent.

5.Bubble tray method - Is an innovative approach for rice

seedling preparation. It utilizes specially designed plastic trays with
small "bubble" or "dome-shaped" cells, which promote efficient root
development, easy transplanting, and reduce seedling stress. This
method is gaining popularity as it allows for faster, more uniform
growth and minimal transplant shock, making it ideal for both
mechanized and manual rice planting systems.
Bed preparation-
Select the Tray and Location
  Use specialized bubble trays with individual cells designed for rice seedlings. The
trays are often made of plastic and come with drainage holes.
 Set up the trays on a flat, level area, ideally on a raised platform to improve air
circulation and water drainage.
Prepare the Growth Medium
 Prepare a growth medium by mixing well-decomposed compost with fine soil in equal
parts. A nutrient-rich medium promotes healthier seedlings.
 Avoid using field soil alone as it may contain pathogens or weed seeds. Instead, create
a sterile mix or use a commercially available potting mix if possible.
Fill the Bubble Trays
 Place the growth medium into each cell of the bubble tray, filling it about three-
quarters full. Lightly press down to ensure the medium is compact but still aerated.
 Moisten the growth medium lightly to prepare it for seed sowing, ensuring it is damp
but not waterlogged.
Seed Treatment and Sowing
 Pre-germinate rice seeds by soaking them in water for 24 hours and then incubating
them in a warm place for another 24 hours to promote sprouting.
 Place one pre-germinated seed into each cell of the bubble tray. This precise
placement ensures even growth and minimizes competition between seedlings.
Watering Management
 Water the trays gently, maintaining a consistent moisture level in the cells without
causing waterlogging.
 Use a fine mist or light spray to avoid displacing seeds or disturbing young seedlings.
 Monitor moisture daily, especially in hot or dry conditions, to keep the growth
medium consistently moist.
Fertilization (Optional)
 If the growth medium lacks nutrients, apply a dilute fertilizer solution (such as an
NPK balanced fertilizer) after seedlings reach about 5–7 days of growth.
 Avoid over-fertilization, which can harm seedlings or encourage excessive root
growth that may hinder transplanting.
Seedling Care and Pest Management
 Ensure the trays receive adequate sunlight for strong growth, but avoid direct
exposure to intense sunlight that could dry out the medium or damage young
seedlings.
 Protect the trays from heavy rain or strong winds by using shade netting or a simple
cover if necessary.
 Check for pests and diseases, although the bubble tray method typically reduces these
risks due to the controlled environment.
Preparing for Transplanting
Seedlings will typically be ready for transplanting after 15–20 days, reaching a height
of around 10–15 cm.
 When ready, lift the seedlings gently from the tray, as the bubble design allows easy
removal without damaging the roots.
 Transplant seedlings into the main field, either manually or using a mechanical
transplanter, for a smooth transition with minimal root disturbance.
ADVANTAGE
  Improved seedling growth.
 Increased yield, can lead to better root development and plant establishment.
 Water conservation.
 Space efficiency.
 Reduced soil erosion.
 Easy transplanting.
 Pest and disease controlled.
DISADVANTAGE
 Higher initial cost.
 Limited availability, may not be widely available in all regions.
 Skill and knowledge.
 Limited scalability, suitable for small-scale farming.
 Dependent on water quality.

6.Modified bubble tray - For rice seedling preparation builds on

the standard bubble tray system, adding enhancements to improve
seedling growth, reduce labor, and promote healthier root systems. By
optimizing tray design, nutrient delivery, and seed handling, this
approach is particularly effective for rice cultivation methods that
require uniform and robust seedlings, such as mechanized planting
systems and the System of Rice Intensification (SRI).
Bed preparation-
Select the Modified Bubble Tray Design-
 Choose bubble trays with deeper and slightly larger cells than
standard trays, ideally with additional perforations or "breathing
holes" for better air circulation.
 These modified trays enhance root aeration and allow for easier
nutrient absorption.
Prepare a High-Quality Growth Medium-
 Mix fine soil with well-decomposed compost or vermicompost,
which provides both aeration and nutrients.
 Add cocopeat or perlite to the mix to further improve drainage
and retain moisture without becoming compacted.
 Optionally, incorporate a small amount of bio-fertilizer or organic supplements to
encourage root health.
Fill the Trays-
 Fill each cell with the growth medium, packing it lightly to avoid compressing the soil
and to maintain good aeration.
 Ensure that each cell is filled to about three-quarters to allow space for root growth
and easier seed placement.
Pre-Treat and Sow Seeds-
 Soak rice seeds for 24 hours, followed by a 24-hour incubation to promote
germination.
  Place a single pre-germinated seed in each cell, centering it to allow even root
distribution as it grows.
 Gently press the seed into the medium without fully burying it, as rice seeds prefer a
shallow planting depth.
Enhanced Watering Management-
 Use a tray system with a bottom reservoir to allow capillary watering. This method
provides consistent moisture from the base without overwatering, which encourages
downward root growth.
 If bottom watering is not possible, use a fine mist sprayer to moisten the medium
evenly from above without washing out seeds or compacting the soil.

Fertilization-
 After the seedlings reach 5–7 days, apply a dilute liquid fertilizer (such as a balanced
NPK or organic seaweed solution) as a foliar spray or light soil drench.
 Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause nutrient burn or weaken the seedlings.
Seedling Maintenance-
 Place trays in an area that receives good sunlight, with protection from strong winds
or heavy rainfall.
 Monitor regularly for pests and diseases; modified bubble trays reduce pest risk by
isolating seedlings in individual cells, but occasional inspection is essential.
 Remove any unhealthy seedlings to prevent spread of disease and to maintain the
overall health of the nursery.
Preparing for Transplantation-
 After about 15–20 days, when seedlings are around 10–15 cm tall, they’re ready for
transplanting.
 Lift seedlings carefully from the modified tray, noting that the deeper cells allow for
strong, undisturbed root systems.
 Transplant seedlings individually into the main field, either by hand or using a
mechanical transplanter, with each seedling supported by its intact root structure.
ADVANTAGE
 Improved seedling growth.
 Increased yield.
 Water conservation.
 Space efficiency.
 Reduce soil erosion.
 Easy transplanting.
 Better pest and disease control.
 Environmentally friendly.
 Cost-effective.
DISADVANTAGE
 Higher initial investment.
 Limited availability.
 Skill and knowledge required.
 Labor intensive transplanting.
 Limited scalability, preferred for small-scale farming.
 Temperature sensitive.
 Requires precise irrigation.
 Dependent on water quality.
7.Frame method - Is an efficient, space-saving technique for raising rice seedlings in a
controlled, protected environment. It involves using wooden or metal frames filled with a
high-quality growth medium, creating raised nursery beds that allow for easy management,
good root growth, and minimal weed competition. This method is suitable for both
traditional and mechanized transplanting, and is commonly used in areas where space is
limited or conditions demand a more controlled setup.
Bed preparation-
Frame Construction-
 Build a sturdy frame from wood, metal, or bamboo, with dimensions based on your
nursery area and seedling requirements. Common frame dimensions are around 1
meter wide and 3–5 meters long for easy access.
 The frame should be about 10–15 cm deep to hold sufficient growth medium for root
development.
 Place the frame on level ground, preferably near a water source for easy irrigation.
Prepare the Growth Medium-
 Prepare a growth medium by mixing equal parts of well-decomposed compost, fine
soil, and optionally some sand or cocopeat for drainage and aeration.
 Ensure the mixture is nutrient-rich and has good moisture retention but is not prone to
waterlogging.
 Spread the medium evenly in the frame to a depth of about 7–10 cm, leveling it out to
avoid pooling of water.
Seed Preparation and Sowing-
 Soak rice seeds for 24 hours, then incubate them for another 24 hours to encourage
sprouting before sowing.
 Broadcast the pre-germinated seeds evenly across the frame or, alternatively, sow
them in shallow rows to ensure uniform growth. A seed rate of about 2–3 kg per
square meter is recommended.
 Lightly press the seeds into the soil surface without burying them deeply, as rice seeds
germinate best close to the surface.
Water Management
 Initially water the bed gently to avoid displacing seeds. A fine mist spray works well
to keep the soil evenly moist.
 Keep the soil consistently damp throughout the seedling phase, but avoid excessive
water that could lead to waterlogging and root rot.
 Adjust watering based on weather conditions, ensuring seedlings receive adequate
moisture for healthy growth.

Fertilization (Optional)
 If the growth medium is not nutrient-rich, apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer
(like NPK 15-15-15) once the seedlings are 5–7 days old.
 Organic alternatives like diluted compost tea or fish emulsion can also be used to
support early growth.
Protecting Seedlings-
  Place the frame in an area with good sunlight, as rice seedlings need ample light for
healthy growth. However, if temperatures are too high, consider a shade net during
the hottest hours.
 Protect the frame from heavy rain or wind, which can damage young seedlings.
Simple plastic or netting covers can provide protection while allowing airflow.
Weed and Pest Management--
 Since the frame method minimizes weed growth, only occasional weeding may be
needed. Remove any weeds that do appear to avoid competition for nutrients.
 Inspect the nursery regularly for pests or diseases and address any issues early, using
organic pest management if possible.
Preparing Seedlings for Transplanting
 Seedlings are generally ready for transplanting after 15–20 days, when they reach
about 10–15 cm in height and are at the 2-leaf stage.
 Carefully loosen the soil within the frame and lift the seedlings with their root ball
intact to avoid root disturbance.
 Transplant seedlings into the main field using a spacing of around 25 cm, either
manually or with a mechanical transplanter.
ADVANTAGE
 Improved seedling growth.
 Increased yield.
 Water conservation.
 Space efficiency.
 Reduce soil erosion.
 Easy transplanting.
 Better pest and disease control.
 Reduce labor.
 Cost-effective.
 Environmentally friendly.
DISADVANTAGE
 Higher initial investment.
 Limited availability.
 Skill and knowledge.
 Labor intensive transplanting.
 Limited scalability.
 Temperature sensitivity.
 Dependent on water quality.
 Limited crop selection.
 Requires precise irrigation.
 Seedling may become root-bound if not transplanted timely.

CONCLUSION
Modern and ongoing practices in rice nursery preparation have revolutionized rice
cultivation, making it more efficient, sustainable, and adaptable to various environmental and
economic conditions. Advanced methods, such as the Dapog method, bubble tray method,
frame method, and System of Rice Intensification (SRI), cater to specific farming needs,
such as resource conservation, labor efficiency, and yield optimization. These methods
emphasize precision in seeding, optimal use of space, improved water management, and
targeted nutrient delivery, all of which contribute to healthier seedlings and higher transplant
success rates.
Technological advancements, such as mechanized transplanting and the use of controlled
environment trays or bio-fortified media, further support healthy seedling growth, reduce
transplant shock, and enhance adaptability to changing climatic conditions. As these practices
evolve, farmers benefit from more resilient and robust seedlings, which can lead to increased
productivity, reduced input costs, and more sustainable use of resources.