Rice Production Potential Zoning of 3 Provinces in the Central Plain

Abstract

Comparison of rice production between farmer's and introduced appropriate technology management based on soil suitability and fertility was established in according to accomplish rice production potential of three major production provinces in the central plain, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Nayok and Chachoengsao during 2002-2006. Results showed that most rice soils were very suitable soils. Farmers in irrigated area applied higher fertilizer rates than recommendation ones leading to less profit. For rainfed low land area, high yield varietal supplement can increase more rice yield than fertilizer management. In conclusion, rice production potential of three provinces in which had been demonstrated as potential mapping can increase an average yield by 10% with maximum decrease of total input cost of 40% leading to gain approximately 800 million baht a crop or 1,600 million baht a year increased value from rice yield.