RUVU RICE FARM (field trip report)

Rice is well adapted to grow in flooded conditions, These adaptations allow rice to thrive
in environments where other crops would struggle, particularly in waterlogged or flooded
conditions common in rice paddies.

# Observation at the rice fields

● Rice paddies are flooded and the rice plants have their roots submerged in water

# Preparation of the field

● Clearing the Field: The first step involves removing any debris, previous crop
residues, or unwanted plants. This ensures a clean slate for planting rice.

● Levelling the Land: Levelling is critical in rice cultivation to ensure even water
distribution. Uneven fields can result in dry patches or excessive flooding in some
areas. Farmers use tools such as levellers or laser-guided equipment to achieve a
uniform surface.

● Soil Preparation

● Ploughing: The soil is ploughed to break up the compacted ground and improve
its structure. This also helps mix organic matter into the soil, promoting better
water retention and root penetration. In some traditional systems, animals like
buffaloes are used for ploughing, while in modern systems, tractors and
mechanical ploughs are more common.

● Harrowing: After ploughing, harrowing is done to further break down soil clumps
and smooth the soil surface. This creates a fine texture that’s ideal for
transplanting seedlings.

● Flooding the Field

● Initial Irrigation: Water is introduced to the field to a shallow depth. This softens
the soil and helps with weed control. In terraced or flat fields, the water can be
manually or mechanically regulated to maintain the

● Puddling: In flooded fields, farmers often perform “puddling,” a process where the
soil is churned while submerged in water. This helps to reduce soil permeability,
trap nutrients, and create a thick mud layer that supports rice seedlings. Puddling
also helps limit weed growth, as it makes it difficult for unwanted plants to take
root.
# planting of rice from nursery to paddies

1. Establishing the Nursery Bed

● Location: The nursery bed is usually a small, well-prepared area near the main rice
field, where seeds are sown and seedlings grow for about 20–30 days.

● Soil Preparation: The soil in the nursery bed is ploughed and finely tilled to create
a smooth, fertile surface. Organic manure or fertilizers are added to ensure the
young plants receive the nutrients they need.

● Flooding: The nursery bed is typically flooded to a shallow depth (about 2-3 cm) to
create an ideal environment for rice seed germination.

2.Transplanting to the Main Field

● Field Preparation: The main field, which has been thoroughly ploughed, leveled,
and flooded, is now ready for planting. Water is maintained at a shallow level
(about 2-5 cm) to allow easy planting and seedling establishment.

● Spacing: Seedlings are transplanted at a set spacing (typically around 20 cm

between rows and 15 cm between plants) to ensure that each plant has enough
room to grow and access nutrients.

● Transplanting Method:
● By Hand: Farmers typically transplant seedlings by hand, placing 2-3 seedlings
per hill. They push the roots into the soft, muddy soil, ensuring the seedlings are
upright and well-anchored.

● Machine Transplanting: In some areas, mechanical transplanters are used to place

the seedlings in the field with precision and consistency, saving time and labor.

# condition under weight the rice grows

● Temperature: Rice thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20°C and 35°C.

● Water Availability: Rice requires continuous water, typically grown in flooded

fields or paddies.

● Soil: Prefers clay or loamy soil with good water retention and a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.

● Sunlight: Requires full sunlight, about 12 hours a day.

 ● Humidity: High humidity levels between 70% and 90% are ideal.

● Altitude: Grows from sea level to 3,000 meters, with terraces used at higher
altitudes.

● Wind: Can tolerate mild to moderate winds but is vulnerable to strong winds,
especially during flowering.

# observable, adaptation of rice, plant growth submerged in water

● Floating Leaves: Some varieties of rice develop long, flexible leaves that float on
the water’s surface, ensuring that the plant can continue photosynthesis even in
deep water.

● Rapid Stem Growth: When submerged, rice can elongate its stems quickly to
reach above the water surface. This adaptation helps the plant maintain access to
sunlight and air, enabling continued photosynthesis and respiration.

● Shallow Root System: Rice plants have a relatively shallow root system, which
allows them to absorb nutrients and oxygen more effectively from the flooded,
upper layers of the soil.

# your academic experience about the trip

● During our field trip to the rice paddies, we delved into various aspects of rice
farming. We observed the intricate planting process and learned about the
importance of irrigation techniques in sustaining the crops. The experience
offered a deep dive into the cultural and economic significance of rice in the
region, enriching our understanding and appreciation of rice farming.

# what you benefited from the trip

● From this trip, I gained valuable insights into the rice farming process, including
planting, irrigation, and harvesting techniques. It enhanced my understanding of
the challenges and rewards of rice cultivation, as well as its significance in local
communities. The trip also offered a hands-on educational experience that
broadened my perspective on agriculture.

DONE BY HOSAAM SWALEH