Growth Responses and Yield of Oryza sativa L. on Earthen Pond–Based Floating Bed

This study evaluated the growth response and yield performance of Oryza sativa L. grown under an earthen pond–based floating bed system compared with the traditional soil-based planting method. Specifically, the study examined the chemical properties of soil and water, vegetative growth parameters and yield. Soil was alkaline, while water was neutral to slightly alkaline with adequate nutrient levels The experiment followed a quantitative descriptive design with replicated trials. Growth parameters measured included shoot length, leaf length, number of leaves, leaf area index (LAI) and root length, while yield parameters included number of productive tillers, panicle length, 1000-grain weight, grain filling percentage, and grain yield mass. Independent samples t-tests were used to determine significant differences between the two systems. Results showed that the floating bed system significantly improved shoot length (60, 90 DAT), leaf length (60 DAT), and number of leaves (90 DAT), while the traditional method resulted in higher leaf area index, longer roots, and longer panicles at 90 DAT. However, most yield parameters—including productive tillers, 1000-grain weight, grain filling percentage, and grain yield mass—did not differ significantly @ 0.05. Both systems achieved high grain filling percentages and comparable grain yield. Overall, the floating bed system demonstrated comparable yield performance and can serve as a viable alternative rice cultivation method, particularly in flood-prone or waterlogged areas.

rice cultivation; floating bed system; grain yield; vegetative growth; alternative farming

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