Rice lodging is a major challenge that significantly affects yield and quality. The earlier the lodging occurs, the more severe the impact on production. Studies show that lodging during the milk ripening stage can reduce rice yield by up to 34%, while lodging during the wax ripening or yellow ripening stages can lower yield by about 20%. In addition to yield loss, lodging also increases harvesting time and labor costs, and may lead to lower grain quality. Therefore, effective field management is essential to prevent lodging and ensure high productivity.
There are different types of rice lodging:
- **Root lodging** occurs when the roots are weak, shallow, or poorly developed, making the plant unstable. Wind and rain can easily cause the plants to fall over.
- **Stem lodging** happens when the stems are not strong enough to support the weight of the upper parts of the plant, leading to bending or breaking.
Several factors contribute to rice lodging. These include variety characteristics, environmental conditions, farming practices, and the plant’s natural resistance to lodging. Root development plays a crucial role—root length, thickness, internal structure, and root system distribution all affect stability. A well-developed deep root system is especially important. For stem lodging, plant height, internode length, and stem wall thickness are key factors.
The main causes of lodging include:
1. **Poor variety selection**: Varieties with short internodes, thick stems, erect leaves, and strong root systems are less prone to lodging. Choosing the right variety is a fundamental step in preventing lodging.
2. **Improper planting density**: Overcrowding reduces air circulation and light penetration, which weakens plant growth and increases the risk of lodging.
3. **Inadequate fertilizer management**: Excessive nitrogen can cause excessive vegetative growth, weak stems, and poor root development. Long-term flooding also leads to weak root systems and increased lodging risk.
4. **Pests and diseases**: Uncontrolled pests or diseases can damage the plant's stalks, reducing their structural integrity and increasing the likelihood of lodging.
To effectively prevent rice lodging, farmers should take the following measures:
1. **Choose lodging-resistant varieties**: Opt for semi-dwarf, thick-stemmed, and well-rooted varieties with upright leaves.
2. **Improve water and fertilizer management**: Apply balanced fertilizers, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients like silicon. Use shallow and intermittent irrigation, adjusting water depth according to growth stages.
3. **Maintain proper planting density**: Ensure good ventilation and light exposure by avoiding overcrowding, which helps strengthen stems and improve overall plant health.
4. **Perform timely field cultivation**: Drainage and drying in the late tillering stage help control excess tillers, improve soil conditions, and enhance root vitality.
5. **Control pests and diseases promptly**: Preventing damage to the stem tissue is vital for maintaining the plant’s structural strength and reducing lodging risk.
By implementing these strategies, farmers can significantly reduce the occurrence of rice lodging and achieve better yields and higher-quality harvests.
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