Hainan white pepper Sichuan Liuhang Agriculture Co.Ltd , https://www.lhagriculture.com
Rice intercropping and intercropping cultivation and yield increasing technology
Rice is one of the most important grain crops in Sichuan, with an annual planting area of approximately 33 million mu, accounting for 30% of the total grain sown area. The province produces around 34 billion kilograms of rice annually, making up 50% of the total grain output. Indica rice plays a vital role in the region's agriculture, while glutinous rice is not only a traditional non-staple food but also a crucial raw material for food processing and brewing. It holds a significant place in local diets and industries.
In the late 1980s, hybrid rice was widely promoted, leading to increased yields of japonica rice. However, the production of japonica rice remained relatively backward. One major issue was the aging of varieties, which were mostly conventional types. Although these had better quality, they tended to be taller, less resistant, and more prone to lodging. Additionally, cultivation practices were outdated, often relying on net-like planting methods that made the plants vulnerable to falling over. Over the past decade, the threat of rice blast has worsened, reducing the yield of japonica rice to about 350 kg per mu, resulting in low economic returns and a shrinking planting area. Currently, it stands at around 400,000 mu, failing to meet the demand for glutinous rice from both daily consumption and industrial sectors. Moreover, the large investment in controlling rice blast each year leads to environmental pollution and disrupts ecological balance.
To address this challenge and boost rice production, Sichuan introduced a new approach in 2002. By adjusting the agricultural structure and adopting a "market-oriented, technology-based, benefit-centered" strategy, the province promoted hybrid rice technology to control rice blast using biodiversity principles. Hybrid rice was intercropped with conventional japonica rice. In a 5 million mu area, the average yield of hybrid mid-season rice reached 538 kg per mu, while the conventional variety yielded 48 kg. In Guang'an City, 256,600 mu were intercropped, with hybrid rice averaging 550.9 kg and japonica rice 45.2 kg per mu, surpassing single-crop yields by 45.2 kg. In Mingyang Township, Bazhou District, 1,870 mu of intercropped fields produced 55.9 kg of flat rice and 592.2 kg of hybrid rice, totaling 648.1 kg per mu—40.1 kg higher than pure hybrid rice. This method significantly boosted income and production, proving highly effective.
The success of this intercropping system is rooted in eco-agriculture principles. By leveraging cultivar diversity, it helps manage disease pathogens and improves ecological balance. Different varieties, with varying maturation periods and plant heights, are strategically arranged to optimize resource use, increase light capture, and reduce rice blast incidence. This not only lowers losses but also boosts production and income. The core idea is to achieve a 50 kg increase in grain output and a 60 yuan rise in net income without compromising hybrid rice yields. Practical results show that this technique enhances three-dimensional rice field cultivation, extends land utilization, controls rice blast effectively (up to 70%), protects the environment, and increases overall supply.
The key to this technology lies in the strategic use of time and space. By creating a 7-10 day maturity gap and a 15-20 cm height difference between hybrid and japonica rice, farmers can optimize light, water, and nutrient use, improving efficiency per unit area.
Selecting high-yield varieties is crucial. For hybrid rice, varieties like Gangyou 725, II You 7, and Jinyou 725 are preferred for their strong resistance and high yield. For japonica rice, varieties such as Fuyou 101 and Jingjing No. 6 are chosen for their short stature, high amylopectin content, and resistance to lodging. These varieties complement each other in growth patterns, enhancing productivity through proper spacing and timing.
Timely sowing and simultaneous transplanting ensure balanced growth, allowing japonica rice to mature 7-10 days earlier. This avoids competition and creates favorable conditions for hybrid rice. Seedling management is also critical, with careful attention to disinfection and nurturing to promote healthy growth.
Soil preparation and scientific fertilization are essential. Organic fertilizer is prioritized, with specific amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium applied to support growth. Proper irrigation and water management help control inefficient tillering and reduce disease risk.
Planting density must be carefully managed. Too dense or too sparse planting can negatively affect either hybrid or japonica rice. Based on trials, optimal densities have been established to maximize yield without compromising quality.
Field management includes regular monitoring, controlled water levels, and timely application of nutrients to enhance tillering success. Pest and disease control focuses on rice blast, sheath blight, and aphids, with strict seed treatments and crop rotation to prevent outbreaks.
Finally, timely harvesting ensures that japonica rice is collected first, minimizing damage to hybrid rice and maximizing grain recovery. This integrated approach has proven highly effective in boosting production, improving farmer incomes, and ensuring sustainable rice farming in Sichuan.