Benefits of continuous plow tillage to fragrant rice performance

Abstract

AbstractTillage is one of the most important management practices in rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. However, reports comparing fragrant rice performance under plow tillage vs. rotary tillage are scarce. Here we conducted a five‐season field experiment with a fragrant rice cultivar, Meixiangzhan‐2, to study the effects of continuous plow tillage on fragrant rice yield, quality, and grain concentration of 2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline (2‐AP), compared with conventional rotary tillage. The results showed that after three cropping seasons of continuous plowing, compared with conventional rotary tillage, plow tillage not only significantly increased grain yield and affected panicle number per area by 2.98–11.43% and 4.45–18.81%, respectively, but also promoted grain 2‐AP concentration and protein content by 17.27–31.46% and 3.94–7.10%, respectively. Moreover, plow tillage decreased grain amylose content by 1.83–3.52%. Compared with conventional rotary tillage, continuous plow tillage also significantly increased dry matter weight of fragrant rice at maturity as well as total N, P, and K accumulation in plant tissues. Moreover, the net income of fragrant rice under plow tillage was US$114.05–526.85 higher than rotary tillage per hectare in the last three cropping seasons. In conclusion, continuous plow tillage enhances fragrant rice performance (yield, quality, aroma) relative to rotary tillage. Our results also improve the scientific database on effects of tillage on rice production.