Page 59 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

Selection of paddy seed variety and planting
The Selection preference for a certain paddy seed variety is driven by several
characteristic features, including high yield, early maturity, pleasant aroma
(fragrant rice), resistance to diseases and harsh conditions (saline soil and
drought), easy milling and percentage yield of unbroken rice grains. Generally,
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the rice variety used by most farmers in Tanzania falls into two categories:
traditional and improved rice varieties.

Traditional rice varieties: These are varieties that are well adapted to natural
farming environments and have been cultivated for a long time. Examples include
Mbawambili, Supa, Kalamata and Kisegese. They are characterised by high
aroma and palatability; however, most take a long time to mature and have lower
yields. Traditional varieties are identified by their local names in areas where
they are grown. Thus, similar varieties may have different names in different
locations.
Improved rice seed varieties: These are seed varieties that have been scientifically
developed through breeding to meet specific required characteristics, such as high
yield, resistance to pests and diseases, tolerance to harsh weather conditions, and
improved grain quality. There are several improved certified paddy seed varieties
grown in different ecological conditions of Tanzania (Table 4.1).

Producers and traders consider the best paddy variety to be one that has high
yields, thrives well in manageable farming conditions, and can fetch a good
market price. The fact that new varieties are being bred and released through
agricultural research systems, it is important to consult available agricultural
extension workers for advice on the best, reliable, certified seeds from approved
seed dealers.

Table 4.1: Suggested paddy varieties for a given ecological zone

Ecology Seed variety

Irrigated/lowlands TXD 306 (SARO 5) TXD 88, Komboka, Tai, TARI RIC
with adequate water 1, TARI RIC 2, TARI RIC 3.
Low land TARI RIC 1, Supa, Komboka, Tai
NERICA 1 (Baraka), NERICA 2 (Tumaini), NERICA 4
Uplands
(Pato), NERICA 7 (Faraja), WAB (Ziada)

Salt-affected soils SATO 1, SATO 9

Source:www.tari.go.tz/assets/uploads/documents/e569f1e236383c7687fe496acf9266c5.pdf

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