April has brought heavy rainfalls to Southern China, with two significant rounds sweeping through the region. These downpours, accompanied by strong convection weather such as high winds and hail, have posed serious challenges to the early rice cultivation process. The forecasting from meteorological departments suggests a continuation of excessive rainfall, particularly in Jiangnan and South China, reaching levels 50-80% above the annual average, with some areas experiencing more than double the usual amount. This could lead to potential flood and waterlogging disasters, affecting early rice transplanting and field management.
Key Period for Rice Cultivation
The period following Grain Rain is crucial for the transplanting and greening of early rice in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, and tillering for early rice in South China. As the foundational phase for the growth of rice, it is critical to implement scientific measures to combat the adverse effects of the continuous rain and potential floods.
Protective Measures for Rice Seedlings
Drainage and Transplanting: For fields yet to be transplanted, it is imperative to ensure efficient drainage to prevent flooding. For young seedlings, consider covering for additional protection if possible, and use deep-water techniques for those unprotected. Facilities should be prepared against strong winds to mitigate the impact of severe weather.
Timing is Key: Fields ready for transplanting should avoid heavy rain for optimal results. Fields yet to be prepared should complete tilling and transplanting swiftly. For direct-seeded rice paddies, maintain a protective water layer of 2-3cm to safeguard against rain erosion, and promptly drain after the weather clears.
Water Management for Healthy Growth
Irrigation and Fertilizer Retention: Sufficient base fertilizer should be applied to speed up land preparation, with water management to prevent nutrient loss due to heavy rains. Post-fertilization, maintain a shallow water level and promptly drain excess water to avoid scouring.
Protection Against Storms: For recently transplanted fields, a shallow water layer should be maintained before storms to protect seedlings, while ensuring water depth to minimize erosion and floating seedlings.
Seedling Inspection and Pest Control
Seedling Inspection and Supplementation: After clearing weather, promptly inspect seedlings affected by heavy rains. Missing seedlings can be supplemented by taking from unaffected areas or using surplus seedlings to ensure crop density.
Disease and Pest Monitoring: Waterlogged and damaged leaves are prone to diseases such as stem rot and root rot, as well as pest attacks. Vigilance and integrated pest management are necessary to mitigate these risks.
Field Management and Recovery
Post-Rain Management: Drainage is essential after rain to reduce waterlogging, ensure oxygen to roots, and allow aeration of the fields to promote root development.
Nutrient Support: For weaker or paler seedlings, suitable application of quick-effect nitrogen fertilizer can boost recovery and growth.
Rapid Response to Damage: For fields beyond recovery, swift action should be taken to replant or resow to limit losses caused by the disaster.
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