Rice Ratooning: A Revolutionary Approach for Resource-efficient and Sustainable Practice for Promising Future of Rice

Ratoon rice, a unique method of cultivating a second crop from primary harvested stubble, is gaining recognition for its potential to revolutionize rice production sustainability and resource efficiency. This comprehensive study aimed to assess the effectiveness of ratoon rice cropping systems compared to traditional methods, focusing on grain yield, quality, economics, and overall sustainability. To achieve better yields in ratoon crops, it is crucial to adopt suitable management practices for both the main crop and the ratoon crop. These practices encompass land preparation, use of suitable cultivars, water management, precise fertilizer application, appropriate cutting stubble height, and effective control of insects and diseases. Results unveiled that with proper management, ratoon rice yields were on par with approximately 60% of the main crop while utilizing only 50% of the labor and resources. The ratoon rice system demonstrated multiple benefits, including farmer profitability, improved crop quality, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Despite its promising potential, the widespread adoption of ratoon rice faced limitations such as inconsistent and lower ratoon crop yields, and the lack of suitable cultivars and specialized rice mechanical harvesters. Addressing these challenges, critical agronomic practices were identified, encompassing nutrient and water management, stubble cutting height, variety selection, and integrated technologies for disease and insect control. Ratoon rice is crucial for promoting widespread adoption and securing ratoon rice as a viable solution for the future of rice cultivation.