Bruce A. Linquist, UCCE rice speicalist, Dept of Plant Sciences, UC Davis |
It is easy to discuss the latest varietal advances
coming out of RES, but no one would know how a
new variety might perform in their growing region
without this project. This project seeks to remove
some of the uncertainty surrounding a new variety by
comparing it to varieties already familiar to you.
You are encouraged to examine the full report linked here and look over the data for the trial near you. The zones for the trials are described on pages 2-3, and the results start on page 5. These results allow you to compare how different varieties performed in an area similar to yours. Project RM-2 was involved in the planting, sampling, and harvesting 9 trial sites throughout the rice growing area. This project was also involved in several educational activities including the winter rice grower meetings, the RES rice field day, fact sheets and publications, and updating of the UCCE rice website. |
Six on-farm rice variety evaluation trials were
conducted throughout the rice growing region of
California, with standard varieties compared to
preliminary and advanced lines across a range of
environments, cultural practices, and disease levels.
One similar test was conducted at the RES in
Biggs, CA. Average yield across varieties and locations
in the four-replication advanced line tests
was 8,300 lbs./acre. A second consecutive dry winter
and water shortage allowed field preparation
and planting to be completed in early May. All
statewide tests were planted by May 21st. Several
advanced lines in 2022 produced high yields as
well as demonstrating important breeding goals
aside from yield (disease resistance, grain quality,
specialty types, etc.). Testing advanced and preliminary
lines under a variety of conditions remains a
critical aspect of releasing varieties adapted to
changing cultural practices, markets, and pests.