Rice farmers need to make crop-specific irrigation decisions

摘要

MISSISSIPPI STATE-Proper irrigation is a science, but implementing it on a farm is less precise. Moisture for a crop serves two purposes; it cools the plant and transports nutrients needed for development. When nature doesn't provide the water through rain, technology can by irrigation. Jim Thomas, agricultural engineer with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said there are no fixed initiation or termination dates for irrigation in the state.