The Current Situation of Farmers’ Practice of Rice Seed Use in Cambodia: An Exploratory Study in Takeo Province

Abstract

Rice productivity in Cambodia has increased dramatically in recent decades. The main factor behind this breakthrough has been the spread of irrigation and modern rice varieties. However, the formal rice seed supply system is still not well established, and most farmers use seeds collected by themselves. In this situation, it is difficult to maintain the new varieties’ field performance. This study investigated the current situation of farmers’ rice seed treatment practices and the concern that these practices hinder the improvement of rice productivity in Cambodia. Data for this study were collected from 80 conveniently selected farmers in irrigated and rainfed areas in Takeo Province of Cambodia. Farmers in the irrigated area cultivated modern varieties and sold most of their production, while farmers in the rainfed area grew traditional and improved varieties and used them for home consumption. In both areas, farmers procured rice seed through self-collection, and when they changed the variety cultivated, they mostly procured seed from relatives or neighboring farmers. This fact suggested that most farmers did not purchase formally produced seeds. The seed used per hectare in the irrigated area was two times higher than in the rainfed area. In addition, the rice yield per seed used in the irrigated area was lower than in the rainfed area, even though farmers in the irrigated area were growing modern varieties.