I went to my rice farm today to remove some unwanted weeds that grew up. This time, I didn’t want to use a hoe to remove the weeds because rice plants are too packed to eachother. So I decided to use my hand to remove them so that I don’t end up disturbing or damaging the plants.
I noticed from past experience that whenever I'm using a hoe to remove the weeds from the rice farm, I sometimes end up removing the rice plants along with the weeds by mistake, especially since the plants grow close together. The space between them is tight, and even a careful movement with the hoe can sometimes still damage the plant. That's why I chose to use my hands for the work.
Hand picking or manual weed removal is a simple but effective method I can use to remove weeds from the rice farm. Since it involves pulling out the weeds plants directly from the soil. This hand picking method is even very effective because it make sure that the roots of the weeds come along while pulling it out so they do not grow back quickly again.
Though removing weeds with hand is slower than using a hoe, but it has its advantages. With this, I can carefully pull out each weed from the root without disturbing or damaging the rice plants around it. This method is especially useful in situations like mine, where the plants are closely spaced and need careful handling.
It also gives me control to target only the weeds without damaging the rice. The best time to do this method of weed control is when the soil is moist because it makes it easier to pull the weeds out completely. Since my farm naturally holds water, the ground was just right for hand weeding. Even though it takes more time and energy compared to using tools or chemicals.
Of a truth, one advantage I have with my farm is the location. The farm is in a place where water from the river naturally flows and passes through.
This river has created different small channels that direct water into my farm. This acts as a natural irrigation system, keeping the farm moist without depending too much on rainfall.
Because the soil is moist now, the rice plants are able to grow well. The ground holds water well and this is very good for rain farming.
Since my last visit, the rice plants have grown significantly. The last time I came, most of them were only about the length of one finger. Now, they are already more than three finger-lengths tall.
However, I couldn’t remove all the weeds today because it’s not a job that can be completed in one day, especially when doing it by hand. This may take like three to five days or even a week depending on how my strength can carry in a day.
I plan to continue tomorrow. Lucky for me, this month is public holiday, so I will have more time to properly care for the farm.
Thank you for stopping by!!!!
All images are taken by me!!!!