There are different methods of harvesting rice either manually or by using machines. It has been seen that in some methods of harvesting rice is harvested by cutting at the base and in some areas by cutting in the middle porting of the stalk. The porting of stalk present in the field is decomposed naturally enriching the soil which is very important for sustainability.
In parts of Arunachal Pradesh, India in hill areas it has been observed that some farmers harvest only the panicle part of the rice crop at maturity particularly in highly sloppy hills. It helps in easy transportation, increase profit and also less labour consuming, it helps to reduce soil erosion. At the same time it is also been observed that the stalk portion is allowed to decompose naturally to build up the soil fertility.
Is there any research done for similar practice on its favourable effect on soil fertility, may kindly be shared.
Debasish Borah
Such a harvesting method where only the panicles are harvested and the rice stalks are left on the field is still common in some parts of the Philippines particularly in traditional rice farming systems. Obviously, it minimizes the loss of nutrients due to crop removal and ensures that more crop residue is returned to the soil. These in turn could have positive effects on soil health.
It is obvious that residue will increase the fertility of land but it will be little complicated to farmer since they will have difficult both in harvesting due to the remaining stalk of rice on field and another it will generate tidioiosness even in ploughing and for the livestock rearer to it is one supplement in lean period...But a lot there is a lot of research supporting soil structure due to the residue.....
Thank you P. Yadav, yes its some what difficult to harvest. It is observed that the system is followed in sloppy hills. Though harvesting is difficult caring is very easier compared to harvesting in that hilly difficult area, grazing was not common in that situation, it also helps in reducing soil erosion. But, I am interested to see the scientific findings if any.
Really, intresting to note how farmers will manage the crop residue as we are talking about the complex topography which makes tillage practices challenging. Moreover, the soil water availability after harvest would be important factor to consider for decomposition.