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Land Selection

The structure of the land, climate, and other related factors greatly affect the aroma and taste of Basmati rice. For cultivating Basmati and aromatic rice, clayey or loamy soil with high water retention capacity is suitable.

Selection of Varieties

Selecting a good variety is extremely important for high yield and superior quality of Basmati rice. A good variety should have the following characteristics:

• High yield
• Superior quality
• Resistance to pests and diseases
• Short height and early maturity
• High market demand and premium price

Seed Treatment

Before sowing in the nursery, seed treatment must be done. In areas where bacterial blight or bacterial stripe disease is a problem, mix 4 grams of streptomycin sulfate or 40 grams of plantomycin in water for 25 kg of seeds and soak them overnight. The next day, dry them in shade before sowing in the nursery.

Seed Quantity and Seed Treatment

Depending on the variety, 25-30 kg of Basmati rice seeds per hectare is sufficient. The seeds should be treated with carbendazim at a rate of 2 grams per kg of rice before sowing.

Seedling Preparation

For preparing Basmati rice seedlings, a fertile land with proper drainage and an irrigation source should be selected. A nursery of 700 square meters is sufficient for transplanting in one hectare of field. The second fortnight of June is ideal for early maturing varieties, while the third fortnight of June is best for late-maturing varieties. Rotten manure and compost should be mixed with the soil in the nursery.

Proper Soil Preparation

Before transplanting the seedlings, the land should be plowed two to three times, then leveled by filling it with water and using a roller. The field should be divided into small beds. Before transplanting, mix 225 grams of ammonium sulfate or 100 grams of urea and superphosphate per 10 square meters of area. Perform weeding, hoeing, and weed control as required.

Fertilizers and Manure

Basmati rice requires half the amount of fertilizers compared to regular rice. However, due to the shorter height of the new improved varieties, the nitrogen demand has increased compared to traditional varieties. The new varieties of Basmati rice require 90-100 kg of nitrogen, 40 kg of phosphorus, and 30 kg of potassium per hectare.

Irrigation

Rice crops require the highest amount of irrigation, so they should be grown in areas with adequate water availability. Improper water management can cause a significant decrease in yield. Water should be maintained in the field until the grain formation stage. If there is insufficient rainfall, continuous irrigation should be provided to maintain moisture. Water should be drained from the field 15 days before harvesting.

Weed Control

For weed control, weeding and hoeing should be done before and after transplanting rice seedlings. Herbicides should be used as required.

Pest and Disease Control

Rice crops are more prone to pests and diseases compared to other crops, especially Basmati rice. Pests and diseases significantly impact production.

Conclusion

We have discussed in detail the essential aspects of cultivating Basmati and aromatic rice. We hope this information is helpful to you. Cultivating Basmati rice and other varieties requires great caution. Paying special attention to seed quantity, soil preparation, nursery management, transplanting, irrigation, fertilizer application, and weed control can help achieve a good yield.

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