Rain and wind force farmers to rethink nitrogen and weed control strategies
According to the research conducted by Jarrod Hardke, an extension of rice agronomist for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, rice farmers in Arkansas are facing difficult growing conditions due to changing weather patterns this season. After a long winter drought, farmers welcomed rainfall, but recent heavy rains and strong winds have created new challenges in the fields.
“We’re grateful for the rainfall, but it’s coming at a time when we need to be applying herbicides to clean up some of our weeds before going to flood,” he said. “Our most efficient method of nitrogen fertilization is putting it on dry ground before flood. That’s our ideal scenario, and we’re getting very narrow windows to accomplish much of that for the crop.”
Farmers typically prefer to apply nitrogen fertilizer on dry ground before flooding rice fields. This method helps crops grow efficiently and keeps costs lower. However, limited dry periods this year have made it hard for farmers to follow this standard practice.
According to agricultural experts, farmers are now applying nitrogen fertilizer in smaller amounts over time instead of using one large application early in the season. This method, often called “spoon-feeding,” allows crops to receive nutrients gradually, but it requires more labor and increases input costs.
Weather conditions have also made weed control more difficult. Farmers need dry and calm weather to apply herbicides effectively. Frequent rain and windy days have reduced the number of opportunities for spraying fields, making weed management more challenging than usual.
Despite these issues, most of the state’s rice crop was planted on time, and a large portion has already emerged. Still, continued rain during key weeks has slowed fieldwork and forced farmers to adapt quickly.
Experts said that while farmers can still achieve a successful harvest, the season will likely require more effort and higher spending. Farmers are adjusting their strategies to ensure crops receive proper nutrients while managing weeds under less-than-ideal conditions.
Overall, Arkansas rice producers remain focused on making the best decisions possible as they work through a challenging growing season shaped by unpredictable weather.
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