Measurement of Potassium in Rice

Introduction

Potassium is a necessary nutrient for soil in which rice grain is grown, as it is critical in maximising yield.

In order to profitably produce rice, reliable information regarding the potassium content of the soil must be available to farmers. Thus, we can analyse the potassium content of the plant tissue in the roots of the rice grain.

To determine the potassium content, the Horiba LAQUAtwin K-11 potassium ion (K⁺) meter can be used. This is an easy and quick method used to determine the potassium content of soil for the growth of rice crops.

Method

1. The above ground portion of the crop is separated from the root using shears.
2. The lower stem is washed of soil.
3. The stem is cut into 1 cm pieces.
4. The pieces of stem are frozen overnight.
5. A frozen piece of stem is placed in a sap press to obtain the sap.
6. A small sample of the sap is placed on the sensor of the LAQUAtwin K-11 meter and the potassium content is measured after one minute.
7. To repeat sampling, wash the sensor with tap  water and pat dry with a paper tissue.

Results and Benefits

The use of the Horiba LAQUAtwin K-11 meter to measure the potassium content of soil around rice crops will improve farmers’ knowledge of the potassium accumulation. Accordingly, farmers can fertilise their crops with optimal amounts of potassium.

The LAQUAtwin K-11 meter is small and compact, and convenient to carry for easy on-site testing. Its easy-to-use interface is simple for anyone to use.

David Dunn, Gene Stevens “Plant Mapping Potassium in Rice Tissue: What Part to Sample When?: Second Year (2004) Progress report” University of Missouri-Delta Center