SRI or System of Rice Intensification (notes)

SHORT NOTES ON SRI

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SRI or System of Rice Intensification is a farming methodology designed to increase the rice yield using limited resources and reducing environmental impacts. The method was developed by a French Jesuit Father Henri de Laulanié in Madagascar. The methodology has been adopted by smallholder farmers in Asia and Africa, however lack of awareness and proper training has hindered in its full adaptation. 

Its four main principles include:

Planting younger seedlings: planting 8-12 day-old seedlings; it leads to better establishment, higher yields, and reduced pest incidences

single seedlings in wider spaces: careful handling of seedlings during transplanting can significantly improve yield and reduce seedling mortality; wider spacing reduces competition amongst the plants letting each plant access sufficient nutrients, water, and sunlight. 

Organic fertilizers: use of organic matter as a soil amendment; lesser use of synthetic fertilizers

Reduced water consumption: SRI can reduce water use by 25-50% compared to conventional rice farming