Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Double transplanting is a specialized cultural practice in rice cultivation.
It is primarily adopted in areas prone to early-season floods, waterlogging, deep water conditions, or where field preparation is delayed.
The primary objective of this method is to utilize older, robust seedlings that can withstand adverse field conditions and compete better with weeds.
Detailed Explanation:
In the double transplanting method, the seedlings are handled in two distinct stages:
- First, seeds are sown in a primary nursery where they grow for about 21 to 25 days.
- These young seedlings are then uprooted and transplanted closely into a secondary nursery or a temporary intermediate field.
- They remain in this secondary nursery for another 25 to 30 days, where they develop a highly fibrous, thick root system and a stronger, sturdier culm.
- Finally, when the main field is ready and floodwaters stabilize, these mature seedlings are uprooted and transplanted to the main field.
- At the time of final transplanting, the total age of these seedlings is the sum of both nursery phases, which ranges from 50 to 60 days.
This advanced age makes them significantly more resilient to submergence and lodging compared to standard 21-day-old seedlings.
Step 2: Final Answer:
The total age of rice seedlings for transplanting in the main field through the double transplanting method is 50-60 days.