Optimizing Greenhouse Rice Production: What Is the Best Pot Size?

This publication describes our studies to determine the best pot size to optimize greenhouse rice production. We recommend 9-cm (4-inch) diameter square pot. Pots as small as 7-cm diameter yielded seed. This version is updated to include observations of larger pots with multiple plants. Photos of the plants growing under differing pot sizes are provided. This document is one entry in a series of questions and answers originally posted to the Purdue University Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture’s Plant Growth Facility Web site [http://www.hort.purdue.edu/hort/facilities/greenhouse/RiceMethod.shtml] regarding best practices for rice plant growth in a greenhouse. Controlled studies were conducted with the goals of optimizing growth and yield; developing standardized methodology using readily available commercial materials; and providing recommendations for large-scale high-throughput production. Digital images showing treatment differences are included. A summary of recommendations; materials and methods description; and a reference list are available in separate documents