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  • SSNM approach
  • SSNM in three steps
  • Initial concept of SSNM
  • Current version of the SSNM approach
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  • Principles of N management
  • Background on making an N Recommendation
  • Using the SSNM approach to formulate locally adapted N recommendation
  • Using the Leaf Color Chart (LCC) for fertilizer N management
  • FAQs on N Management
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  • Bangladesh
  • China
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Myanmar
  • Philippines
  • Vietnam
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  • Introduction to SSNM version 1.1
  • N management
  • P&K management
  • Implementing SSNM recommendations
  • Making an SSNM recommendation for rice
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  • SSNM: an approach for optimizing nutrient use in intensive rice production
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  • Nutrient omission plot
  • Potassium addition plot
  • Zinc addition plot

Nutrient Omission Plot Technique

4.      After land preparation and before transplanting or sowing rice, measure out four plots of 5 ´ 5 m (25 m²) area within a farmer’s field. Do not place the plots in a corner of the field. Place the plots near an irrigation canal to ensure that irrigation water flows directly into the plots rather than across plots or between plots (Fig. 2).

5.      Construct soil bunds of sufficient height around each plot to prevent movement of water between plots. Also place another soil bund around each experimental unit of four plots to prevent contamination with water containing fertilizer from the farmer’s field adjacent to the plots.

6.      Randomly assign the four omission plot treatments to the four plots. Apply preweighed fertilizers to the treatment plots at the rates and times indicated above.

7.      If farmers use farmyard manure, apply the same amount as farmers to the omission plots. Ensure that farmers do not apply additional fertilizers or organic material to the omission plots.

8.      Use high-quality seeds and establish rice using the common practice, either by transplanting or sowing, at the selected location. Use recommended nursery management practices for transplanted rice and recommended seed rates for wet-seeded rice.

9.      Employ timely and effective practices for water, weed, and pest management.

Fig. 2. An illustration of the field layout for nutrient omission plots in farmer’s field.  

Management of omission plots

Farmers can handle crop management operations from land preparation to harvesting. Research and/or extension workers must be involved to provide guidance in the management of the plots and expertise for the development of fertilizer recommendations. Research and/or extension workers should:

§      Assist in selecting the locations for omission plots.

§      Provide quality seed and pre-weighed packets of the required fertilizers.

§      Collect data as required.

§      Monitor and guide activities and ensure that crop management is properly implemented.

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