Anthropological studies show that women discovered the art of farming and domesticating animals that resulted into the development of human colonies, which accelerated the evolution of civilisation. In ancient times, when the societies were totally dependent on agriculture, women were…
The growth of a plant depends on the availability of sunlight, water and various chemical elements. About 16 elements are recognized as essential in rice nutrition: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, iron, manganese, copper, boron, zinc,…
FOR more than half of humanity, rice is the staple diet and is one of the most important cereals in the world. It also occupies an important position in the agro-based economy of Pakistan. Besides meeting the dietary requirements…
Diseases make plants function improperly and are recognised by their symptoms and associated visible changes caused by the organisms called pathogens. Many species of bacteria, fungus, nematode, virus and mycoplasma-like organisms are responsible for rice diseases. Disorders or abnormalities may…
RICE is the country’s second staple, high-valued and major export crop. But there has been a decrease in area and size of the crop in recent years. Lower production especially of Basmati varieties is due to heavy rains in…
The methods of stand establishment can be broadly divided into direct sowing of pre- or un-germinated seeds and transplanting of seedlings. Traditionally, nursery seedlings are raised which are then transplanted in standing water. This traditional transplanting system not only helps…
TRADITIONALLY farmers transplant rice in puddled soils, as they believe that rice requires more water for better growth and good yield. The other reason is that puddling does not allow emergence of weeds.Weeds are mostly removed from the field manually…
WEEDS are harmful plants within a crop because they compete for nutrients, water, space, light and significantly reduce crop yield. Weeds also harbour pests and diseases, interfere with harvest operations, and increase the cost of cleaning and drying of the…
Rural development is a global concern and Pakistan is not an exception. All countries have adopted models for development to address the indigenous problems and build the capacity of rural communities. Since independence, various models and programmes have been launched…
The community of plants, predominantly of trees, shrubs and herbs, occupying an extensive area of land is called forest. The forests are classified into seven general types recognised from the nine major ecological zones.These general types include: Alpine forests (northern districts…
