Fatima Ria I. Cava, Barbie Ann L. Bugna (January 2003)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to determine the percent mortality of weeds under different water levels: 5 cm, 10 cm, and 15 cm. Effects of these water levels on the growth and yield of rice also determined. PSB RC 4-rice variety was used. Rice growth was measured in terms of height, number of tillers and number of panicles. Harvesting and weighing the rice grains in grams determined yield. Rice growth and yield were compared in the different water treatment levels. Percent mortality of weeds was determined by counting the number of surviving weeds on each container, and then comparing the values obtained with that on the container with water at saturation point level only. Three replicates were used for each set-up. Results showed that the 15-cm level completely eliminated weeds, 10 cm has mortality of 98 percent and 5 cm has mortality of 90 percent. One-way ANOVA and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (0.05) showed that growth and yield of rice in the 5 cm and 10 cm water level were not significantly different, but are significantly higher than 15 cm level. From statistical and raw data results, 10 cm is the best water level for rice growth and yield. Rice yield in 10-cm water level was 2.54% higher than 5 cm, and 22.84% higher than 15-cm level. The number of tiller and panicle counts was highest in the 10-cm water level.