Implications of Weedy Rice in Various Smallholder Transplanting Systems

Weedy rice (Oryza sativa L.) presents a formidable challenge in global paddy cultivation due to its morphological similarity to cultivated rice, making its eradication difficult. To address this, an integrated weed management system (IWMS) was developed and collected across various regions in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, from 2018 to 2020. This study evaluated the efficacy of the IWMS in controlling the spread of weedy rice through systematic applications in three distinct agricultural zones: Meinong Contractual (MC), Meinong Public Stock (MP), and Shanlin Public Stock (SP). The data reveal a consistent decline in weedy rice invasion with sustained implementation of the IWMS, alongside improvements in seed purity and corresponding grain quality. These enhancements not only mitigate the adverse effects on seed purity but also elevate grain quality, thereby curtailing yield losses and bolstering economic returns. Further analysis indicates that the patterns of weedy rice invasion correlate strongly with geographical and agronomic variables, such as the source of seedlings, land preparation techniques, field management, and the sharing of agricultural implements. Consequently, raising farmer awareness and providing specialized training on management strategies are crucial for effective prevention of weedy rice.