SRI farming: healthier crops, lower costs, stable output

On May 5, the Ha Tinh Sub-Department of Crop Production and Animal Production, in coordination with the Can Loc Commune People’s Committee, held a field workshop to evaluate the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) model combined with tray seedlings, mechanical transplanting, and organic production in the 2026 spring crop. The model, implemented with Que Lam Group, has delivered promising results in terms of economic efficiency, production organization, and environmental impact.

The model covers 5.6 ha in Dat Ma and Dong Chua fields (Tan Thuong hamlet). Unlike traditional practices, the entire area follows organic standards and SRI techniques, using tray seedlings, mechanical transplanters, and microbial and organic-mineral fertilizers supplied by Que Lam Group.

At the start of the crop, farmers received guidance on sowing tray seedlings using machines. This approach helped them better control timing, reduce nursery land, and cut seed use to 40 - 60 kg/ha. After 17 - 20 days, seedlings were transplanted using six-row machines at low density, with 2 - 3 tillers per hill. This spacing allows better airflow and reduces nutrient competition.

Throughout the farming process, the model replaced chemical fertilizers with organic inputs while promoting mechanical weeding and soil aeration. This improved soil structure, enhanced moisture retention, and boosted beneficial microbial activity. Choosing the alternate wetting and drying method instead of continuous flooding also reduced water use, aligning with current production conditions.

The DT39 rice variety showed stable growth with a cycle of roughly 116 days. Plants were sturdy, with strong stems and well-developed roots. During recent storms and strong winds, the model’s rice fields remained intact while surrounding fields experienced lodging - a key advantage under increasingly erratic weather conditions.

Thanks to proper spacing and care, pest and disease incidence was low. The crop required almost no pesticide use, with only minor occurrences of leaf rollers, sheath blight, and brown spot that did not significantly affect growth.

Yield components were at high levels: approximately 240 panicles per square meter, 150 filled grains per panicle, and a low sterility rate of 5.7%. Actual yield reached 6.34 tons/ha, higher than conventional fields.

A notable benefit was the significant reduction in input costs. Lower seed rates, minimal chemical use, and reduced pesticide needs helped cut expenses while maintaining yield. Profit reached roughly VND 1.53 million per sao (500 m²), higher than traditional farming.

The entire output was purchased by Que Lam Group at VND 8,500/kg, which is higher than the market price. Having businesses guarantee the purchase of produce helps farmers feel secure in their production, eliminating worries about the situation of “bumper harvest, poor prices.”

“The biggest difference this season is healthier rice with fewer pests. After heavy rains, the crop remained standing. Organic farming reduces costs, and with a buyer secured, we feel more confident,” said Nguyen Thi Sam, a participating farmer in Tan Thuong hamlet.

Dang Van Binh, Head of Tan Thuong hamlet, said that farmers were initially hesitant about sparse planting due to fear of lower yields. However, results have proven otherwise, specifically the field’s resilience to extreme weather. After the workshop, many households registered to adopt the model.

According to Nguyen Anh Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Can Loc Commune People’s Committee, the model has started to shift local farming habits toward lower input costs, higher product quality, and stronger business linkages. “The crop has grown well, with higher yields than conventional production. With guaranteed purchasing at good prices from Que Lam Group, farmers can grow crops without worries. The locality will continue promoting and scaling up the model,” he said.

Some challenges remain visible during the implementation process. A number of farmers are still unfamiliar with SRI techniques such as sparse planting and water management. The hot weather during the flowering stage also affected yields to some extent. These issues will need further guidance and adjustment in future crops.

Overall, the model demonstrates strong potential for local adaptation. The combination of improved techniques, mechanization, and market linkages offers a new approach to enhancing productivity while ensuring stable output for farmers.