Punjab Agricultural University Introduces Raised-Bed Nursery Technique for Faster Paddy Seedling Growth
PAU recommends raised-bed paddy nursery to improve seedlings, cut growth time
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has introduced a raised-bed nursery technique that prepares paddy seedlings for transplantation in just 25 days, five days faster than traditional methods. This innovative approach enhances plant health and germination rates, addressing common challenges faced by farmers in Punjab, India.
- 01The raised-bed nursery technique reduces seedling preparation time from 30 to 25 days.
- 02This method improves plant health and germination rates for paddy seeds.
- 03Farmers can easily create raised beds by hand or using a tractor-fitted bed-maker.
- 04The technique minimizes nutrient loss and overheating issues common in conventional nurseries.
- 05Punjab recorded nearly 32.48 lakh hectares under paddy cultivation in 2025.
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Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has recommended a new raised-bed nursery technique for paddy cultivation, which prepares seedlings for transplantation in 25 days, five days faster than traditional methods. Buta Singh Dhillon, an agronomist at PAU, highlighted that this technique not only enhances the health and germination of paddy seeds but also addresses common issues faced by farmers using conventional flat nursery setups. In the past, saplings often took over 30 days to prepare, leading to poor growth and nutrient loss due to overheating. The raised beds should be 3-4 inches above the ground, with each bed measuring one meter wide and spaced 30 cm apart for efficient irrigation. This method allows farm laborers to transplant seedlings with minimal loss, and it can be implemented using simple tools or machinery. Nutrient and weedicides application remains consistent with traditional methods, ensuring ease of transition for farmers.
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The raised-bed nursery technique can significantly enhance the efficiency of paddy cultivation, leading to better yields and healthier crops for farmers in Punjab.
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