To grow well, rice plants require a good irrigation system. There are three irrigation systems commonly used: continuous irrigation, rotational irrigation, and intermittent irrigation. In this article, we will specifically discuss the intermittent irrigation method in wetland rice. Intermittent irrigation, also known as intermittent flooding, is an irrigation system that alternates between wet and dry conditions.
How to Apply Intermittent Irrigation
The intermittent irrigation system can help conserve water and effectively irrigate large areas. This system also provides opportunities for plant roots to access oxygen. During fertilization, this system aids in the easy absorption of nutrients into the soil. Below is a complete guide on how to implement intermittent irrigation in wetland rice:
Seedbed Preparation
This system can be initiated during the seedbed preparation stage. Rice seeds are usually sown in a specially prepared field. The seeds are planted in saturated soil conditions and are then watered again after 3 to 4 days. This alternating water regime should ideally occur every 3 days.
During the first day of irrigation, the water depth should be about 3 cm. This water level is maintained for the next 2 days. Only on the 4th day is the paddy field flooded more extensively. This irrigation method is applied until the maximum tillering stage of the rice plant.
Growth to Harvest Stage
Next, irrigation continues during the rice growth phase until the harvesting stage. The timing of irrigation intervals can be adjusted according to fertilizer application to ensure optimal nutrient absorption by the plants. During the panicle initiation and grain filling stages, the fields are continuously flooded.
Harvest Stage
Lastly, irrigation during the rice harvesting stage should also be considered. Despite being in the final stage, irrigation remains important for the rice grains to mature optimally. About 10 to 15 days before harvesting, the paddy fields should be dried. If water volume is difficult to control, reducing the volume of water can be effective.
Important Considerations
Intermittent irrigation can be adjusted flexibly based on water availability. If water availability is insufficient for a single planting season, the irrigation period can be extended up to 5 days. This is crucial to ensure an adequate water supply for rice growth.
Intermittent irrigation also considers the physical condition of the soil. For sandy soils that absorb water quickly, the irrigation rotation period can be shortened. Extended periods of irrigation can cause the soil to dry out, resulting in insufficient water supply for the rice plants.
On the other hand, for clayey soils, the irrigation period can be extended. Some wetland fields have both clayey and non-clayey soils. Clayey soils will still provide an adequate water supply even with extended irrigation periods.
Intermittent irrigation can also follow the standard rotation periods set for a particular region. For example, if a wetland area typically follows a 3-day rotation, this pattern can be adhered to for each planting season. Intermittent irrigation is not suitable for poorly drained soils and lands that are difficult to dry.
Conclusion
That’s how intermittent irrigation works in wetland rice cultivation. This irrigation system can be applied to both wet and dry seedbed systems. It’s important to emphasize that the irrigation system will also affect the physical properties of the soil. Therefore, it should be carefully considered to ensure that nutrients are easily absorbed by the rice plants.