Adopting a Planting System in the 5th Cycle of Mansur Heritage Rice

Since 2022, Begawan has initiated a farming program focusing on regenerative farming with the cultivation of heritage Mansur rice. The program has entered its 5th harvest cycle, and Begawan continues to innovate and research to improve harvest yields effectively and efficiently. One of the activities we are implementing in this 5th harvest cycle is the use of a planting system that combines SRI (System of Rice Intensification) and jajar legowo planting system.

Adopting a Combination of SRI and Jajar Legowo Planting Systems

SRI (System of Rice Intensification) is an agricultural method designed to enhance rice productivity by optimising natural resources, reducing agrochemicals, promoting healthier plant growth through practices such as planting young, single seedlings, and utilising organic fertilisers. The jajar legowo planting system involves a distinctive rice cultivation technique characterised by the arrangement of multiple rows of rice plants interspersed with empty rows. Typically, in the jajar legowo method, rice seedlings are alternately planted every few rows, leaving one empty row in between. However, Begawan’s planting system departs from conventional practices by completely eliminating agrochemicals and adopting a slightly revised planting approach from jajar legowo. It involves dividing fields into four smaller plots within each larger plot. Under this system, rice plants are spaced 25 cm apart, while the gaps between rows measure 30 cm in width.

Advantages of the Combined Planting System

The implementation of a combined planting system offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it contributes to increased harvest yields by accommodating a higher number of rice plants per unit area, thereby maximising agricultural output. Additionally, this system streamlines maintenance activities such as fertilisation, pest control, and weeding, making them more efficient and manageable. Moreover, employing raffia strings within this planting approach has improved resilience against environmental challenges during adverse weather conditions, particularly strong winds. Thus, the combined planting system stands as a comprehensive solution that boosts productivity.

Progress and Future Prospects

With the implementation of a planting system that combines the principles of SRI (System of Rice Intensification) and staggered planting, Begawan is currently in its 5th harvest cycle. In the 4th cycle, we observed an increase in yield. However, Begawan’s farm team eagerly anticipates experimenting with many more approaches to achieve even better results. We remain hopeful that  positive potential can be realized through this innovation. These steps mark an important initial move in our journey towards more sustainable and productive regenerative agriculture in bringing back Bali’s heritage rice.