Problems in the use of microplots for assessing the fate of urea applied to flooded rice

Abstract

The effects of differences in size of microplot and type of enclosure on the floodwater parameters determining ammonia volatilization were studied. The results show that the use of enclosures can retard urea hydrolysis, suppress the maximum daytime pH values (an effect which is cumulative over a number of days), and significantly reduce the potential for ammonia volatilization. These effects are the consequence of lowered light (and heat) penetration in the enclosed area due to shading of the floodwater by the enclosure walls. The magnitude of these effects varies with plot size and shape, and the material used for construction of the plot wall. A preliminary analysis suggests that, if errors due to shading are acceptable when 90% or more of the incident solar radiation always penetrates to the enclosed floodwater, then square plots with opaque walls must be at least 1.2 m along a side and cylindrical plots must be at least 1.2 m in diameter when wall height is 0.1 m above the floodwater.