Aim for profitable year by selecting the best varieties

Rice growers are focusing on making a profit in 2018, and variety selection is always at the forefront. Thanks to our farmers, industry and universities for our research. According to variety studies at University of Missouri, Portageville, at the Missouri Rice Research Marketing council’s research farm and other university trials, we have several rice varieties from which to choose.

I suggest getting with your consultant and reviewing the strengths and weakness of each variety and how they may best fit into your operation.

Furrow-irrigated rice, also known as row rice, is gaining in interest for many reasons. Researchers at the University of Missouri Delta Center have been conducting trials on row rice since 1988, and variety testing has been at the forefront of that research.

Southeast Missouri University researchers also have ongoing work at the rice council’s research farm. Furrow-irrigated rice will be featured at the upcoming University of Missouri Rice Production Conference, Feb. 8, at the Malden Community Center, Highway 25 Business, Malden, Missouri, starting at 8 a.m.

Hybrids generally yield more and have a better disease package than non-hybrids. Some perform better than others under different situations, like furrow-irrigated rice.

Special study may be needed to choose the best variety strengths for your operation. Soils, irrigation, diseases and insects all influence which variety is best. Consultants are great investments to assist with integrated pest management for a more profitable crop.

After another dry fall, Missouri growers have smoothed fields and prepared for 2018 planting. A good start for a profitable year.