University conducting research into rice yield
August 16 - 22, 2010
FARMERS are to be encouraged to switch to a little-used method of rice growing that could increase their yield.
Researchers at Taungoo University are using the method to grow rice on 50 acres of their 285-acre compound. In October or November they will share their experience with local farmers.
The method, known as System of Rice Intensification (SRI), was developed in 1983 and is widely used throughout the world, but not in this country. SRI requires that rice plants be more widely spaced to permit root growth, and that soil be kept moist rather than saturated, in order to support the diversity of anaerobic soil organisms.
“We use SRI, which doesn’t need much water or many seedlings,” said Dr Aung Thu, the university rector.
“On three acres out of the 50 we’re using purely organic methods,” said Dr Aung Thu, adding that rice harvested from the rest of the field would be distributed to university staff as rations.
The university is conducting six research projects on its farmland, including making fertiliser from green leaves, said Dr Aung Thu.
