Rice (Photo by Pixabay
Rice (Photo by Pixabay)
As the Philippines braces itself for the anticipated El Niño and the accompanying long drought periods, it becomes crucial to identify rice varieties that can withstand and thrive under such challenging conditions. The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has identified several reliable rice varieties that exhibit qualities suitable for prolonged dry spells. These varieties are characterized by their low water requirements and quick maturity, enabling farmers to harvest their crops before the full impact of the impending drought.
PSB Rc 10
With an average yield of 4.8 tons per hectare and a maturity period of 106 days, PSB Rc 10 is an excellent choice for drought resilience. This variety showcases a remarkable ability to produce a substantial harvest without being excessively dependent on water. Its relatively short maturity period allows farmers to reap the benefits of their hard work before the drought fully takes hold.
NSIC Rc 152
NSIC Rc 152 is a drought-resistant rice variety suitable for direct-seeding and transplanting, offering versatility in cultivation methods. It delivers an average yield of 4.8 tons per hectare when direct-seeded and an impressive 6 tons per hectare when transplanted. The variety matures in 102 days for direct-seeding and 109 days for transplanting. This adaptability and productivity make NSIC Rc 152 an ideal choice for farmers facing the challenges of the El Niño.
NSIC Rc 440
Recognized for its ability to thrive under drought conditions, NSIC Rc 440 boasts an average yield of 5.5 tons per hectare. With a maturity period of 109 days, this variety exhibits resilience and adaptability to extended dry spells. By choosing NSIC Rc 440, farmers can significantly reduce the risk associated with water scarcity and ensure a stable rice harvest.
NSIC Rc 222
Another promising rice variety for drought-prone regions is NSIC Rc 222. It demonstrates favorable characteristics for both direct-seeding and transplanting. When direct-seeded, NSIC Rc 222 yields an average of 5.7 tons per hectare, while transplanting can increase the yield to 6.1 tons per hectare. Its maturity period is 106 days for direct-seeding and 114 days for transplanting. With these attributes, NSIC Rc 222 provides farmers with options to maximize their productivity and adapt to the changing conditions brought by the El Niño.
NSIC Rc 480
While NSIC Rc 480 offers a slightly lower average yield of 3.2 tons per hectare, it compensates with a maturity period of 107 days. This variety is well-suited for areas facing water scarcity during the dry season. Despite the lower yield, NSIC Rc 480 presents an opportunity for farmers to secure a substantial harvest even under challenging circumstances.
In preparation for the expected El Niño and its associated dry spells, the Philippines can turn to these recommended rice varieties for their drought resilience. The qualities exhibited by these varieties, such as low water requirements, quick maturity, and admirable yields, make them reliable options for farmers seeking to mitigate the impact of water scarcity.
Read more about farming and gardening at agriculture.com.ph