Rice
Oryza sativa
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Quick Info
water
Paddy: flooded fields. Upland: regular rainfall
spacing
20 cm between plants, 25 cm between rows
depth
2-3 cm deep (seeds), 3-5 cm (transplanting)
sun
Full sun
season
Wet season, plant at start of rains
frost
Frost sensitive
height
80-120 cm
gemination
5-7 days
sprout to harvest
90-150 days depending on variety
soil ph
5.5-7.0
soil type
Heavy clay (paddy) or fertile loam (upland)
fertilizer needs
Moderate to heavy NPK, especially nitrogen
About
Rice is an increasingly important food crop in PNG, with domestic consumption growing rapidly. PNG currently imports the vast majority of its rice, creating a major opportunity for local production. Both lowland paddy (wetland) and upland (dryland) rice can be grown in PNG. Smallholder rice production is being promoted to improve food security and reduce import dependence.
Health Benefits
Excellent source of carbohydrates and energy. Provides B vitamins (thiamin, niacin), iron, and manganese. Brown rice retains the bran layer with additional fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Gluten-free.
Market Requirements
Paddy must be dried to 14% moisture for milling. Milled rice should be clean, uniform, and free of stones. Local rice competes on freshness against imported rice.