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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2025)

Optimizing puddling efficiency: A comparative analysis of 13 and 16 hp power tillers in rice cultivation

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.6686
Submitted
13 December 2024
Published
21-05-2025 — Updated on 31-05-2025
Versions

Abstract

Puddling is a critical soil preparation technique in rice cultivation, essential for creating a conducive environment that enhances water retention and nutrient availability in paddy fields. This study investigated the impact of power tiller horsepower and the number of passes on puddling effectiveness in alluvial clay soil under field conditions in Tamil Nadu, India. Two power tillers were evaluated: a 13 hp and a 16 hp model, using single, double and triple pass treatments. The 16 hp power tiller, launched in 2023, features a 16 hp engine, self-start capability and a ride-on design, while the 13 hp power tiller, available for around 20 years, is well-established. The results showed that the 16 hp power tiller consistently achieved higher puddling indices compared to the 13 hp model: 33.64%, 45.22% and 53.56% for 1, 2 and 3 passes, respectively, versus 36.28%, 43.78% and 48.83% for the 13 hp model. Similarly, the infiltration rate for the 16 hp model was significantly lower (2.17 mm, 1.67 mm and 1.25 mm for 1, 2 and 3 passes) compared to the 13 hp model (10.67 mm, 2.33 mm and 1.50 mm). This indicates superior soil compaction and reduced permeability with the 16 hp power tiller. Cost analysis revealed that the 16 hp power tiller is more cost-effective, with an operational cost, along with better fuel efficiency (0.075 litre/hp/hour). The findings support the recommendation of using a 16 hp power tiller with two passes to achieve optimal soil conditions for rice cultivation, enhancing water management, productivity and cost efficiency in paddy fields.

References

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