Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Kulkarni Gokulnandan Rao and Nikhilesh Kumar Das

Abstract:
Effective nitrogen management is crucial for optimizing rice production while minimizing environmental impacts. The Leaf Color Chart (LCC) has emerged as a valuable tool for nitrogen management in rice cultivation. This review aims to provide an overview of the utilization and reliability of LCC in both dry-seeded rice (DSR) and transplanted rice (TPR) systems. The LCC method involves visually assessing leaf color as an indicator of plant nitrogen status. It offers a simple, cost-effective, and non-destructive approach to monitor and adjust nitrogen fertilizer application throughout the rice-growing season. LCC-based nitrogen management strategies can enhance nitrogen use efficiency, improve yield, and reduce nitrogen losses, thus promoting sustainable rice production. This review examines the scientific evidence supporting the use of LCC for nitrogen management in DSR and TPR. It explores various aspects such as LCC calibration, threshold values for different growth stages, and the correlation between LCC values and leaf nitrogen content. Additionally, the review discusses the practical application of LCC in different rice-growing regions and its compatibility with different rice varieties. Furthermore, the review highlights the advantages of LCC over conventional nitrogen management approaches, including cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and ease of implementation. It also addresses potential challenges and limitations associated with LCC, such as subjective interpretation and the influence of other factors on leaf color. Overall, this comprehensive review demonstrates that LCC is a reliable and practical tool for nitrogen management in rice cultivation, regardless of the cultivation system (DSR or TPR). It provides valuable insights for researchers, agronomists, and rice growers seeking to optimize nitrogen fertilizer application and improve sustainability in rice production systems. Future research directions and potential advancements in LCC-based nitrogen management are also discussed.