Improved Method of Suitability Classification for Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Cultivation in Paddy Field Soils

Abstract

In Korea, the largest agricultural lands are paddy fields which have poor infiltration and drainage properties. Recently, Korean government pursuits cultivating upland crops in paddy fields to reduce overproduced rice in Korea. In order to succeed this policy, it is critical to set criteria suitability classification for upland crops cultivating in paddy field soils. The objective of this study was developing guideline of suitability classification for sesame cultivation in paddy field soils. Yields of sesame cultivated in paddy field soils and soil properties were investigated at 40 locations at nationwide scale. Soil properties such as topography, soil texture, soil moisture contents, slope, and drainage level were investigated. The guideline of suitability classification for sesame was determined by multi-regression method. As a result, sesame yields had the greatest correlation with topography, soil moisture content, and slope. Since sesame is sensitive to excessive soil moisture content, paddy fields with well drained, slope of 7-15% and mountain foot or hill were best suit for cultivating sesame. Sesame yields were greater with less soil moisture contents. Based on these results, area of best suitable paddy field land for sesame was 161,400 ha, suitable land was 62,600 ha, possible land was 331,600 ha, and low productive land was 1,075,500 ha. Compared to existing suitability classification, the new guideline of classification recommended smaller area of best or suitable areas to cultivate sesame. This result may suggest that sesame cultivation in paddy field can be very susceptible to soil moisture contents. The guideline of suitability classification for sesame including soil moisture contents to represent characteristics of paddy field soils.