Santa Catarina, the second largest rice producer in Brazil, stands out for the high quality of the grain. This excellence is attributed to several factors, from the cultivation model and the extreme care of the farmers to the use of seeds developed especially for the region.
The data prove this quality, as evidenced by the recently completed harvest, which recorded a performance record, according to analyzes by the Center for Socioeconomics and Agricultural Planning (Epagri/Cepa). The productivity and high standard of rice from Santa Catarina have been increasingly recurrent, also being observed in previous years.
Solo
Soil preparation plays a crucial role in this process, being as important as subsequent steps. It involves adequate leveling for irrigation, soil nutritional balance and phytosanitary management. With the help of technicians, it is possible to monitor these details, make diagnoses and find solutions when necessary.
In addition to investments in innovation and technology, producers are increasingly attentive to analyzes of fertility indicators and other substances that contribute to the final quality of rice, such as levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, sulfur, magnesium and others. micronutrients. The partnership between experts and farmers allows the design of a high quality product, preventing pests and diseases from compromising the cereal.
It all starts with the seeds, which are specially developed to adapt to the Santa Catarina soil. Through studies carried out by the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina (Epagri), rice varieties with maximum adaptability and yield in crops are created. Recently, the institution launched its 34th seed, which promises to withstand extreme temperatures, both high and low.
According to the agronomist and manager of Cooperja Seeds, Célito Mezzari, the creation of these seeds brings genetic gains at each launch, with cultivars that are more resistant to pests and diseases. This results in advantages at all stages of production, also benefiting the final consumer with a product of higher quality and nutritional value.
In addition, another factor that contributes to the good characteristics of the harvest in Santa Catarina is the use of certified seeds. Instead of reusing planted grains, producers prioritize seeds distributed by specialized companies, reducing the chances of loss of quality and preserving the cereal’s own characteristics.
Pre-germinated
The cultivation model adopted by almost 80% of farmers in Santa Catarina, known as pre-germinated, is also a striking differential. Unlike traditional planting, in this method the seeds are initially submerged in water for a certain period and then exposed to the sun. Only when the radicle, a small root, appears do the producers germinate them in the fields. This cultivation in water prevents the growth of weeds and, in some cases, allows the reduction of the use of agricultural defensives.
This year, the planted area in Santa Catarina was approximately 147 thousand hectares, according to a report by Epagri. Although it is smaller compared to the largest rice-producing state, this space limitation makes farmers take special care of every inch of their crops. With a smaller area, an average of 45 hectares per rural producer, it is possible to dedicate intense attention to the entire territory.
In addition, there is a constant search for the improvement of techniques, through training, and the rational use of natural resources. The commitment and dedication of rice growers are evident every year, constantly investing in the crop, using quality seeds and seeking technical advice.
The partnership between farmers and specialist industries ensures that consumers have access to the best possible product. The president of the Union of Rice Industries of Santa Catarina (SindArroz-SC), Walmir Rampinelli, points out that this collaboration results in extremely high quality rice.
