Interaction of lime application and straw retention on ammonia emissions from a double-cropped rice field

Summary

This field study investigates the interactive effects of lime application and crop residue (straw) retention on ammonia volatilisation losses from intensively managed double-cropped rice systems. The work addresses a common tension in sustainable intensification: lime is widely applied to regulate soil pH and enhance nutrient availability, whilst straw retention supports carbon sequestration and soil health, yet both practices may influence N cycling and gaseous N losses. The findings contribute evidence on how these two agronomic interventions interact to shape ammonia emissions in a key global rice production system.

UK applicability

Direct applicability to UK rice cultivation is limited, as commercial rice production is marginal in the UK climate. However, the mechanistic understanding of lime–residue interactions on ammonia volatilisation may inform management of other UK arable crops (particularly cereals) where both practices are considered, and the methodology may support emissions inventory work under the UK Farm Soil Carbon Scheme.

Key measures

Ammonia emissions (likely measured as NH₃ flux or total NH₃ loss); lime application rate; straw retention/incorporation practices

Outcomes reported

The study examined how lime application and straw retention practices interact to influence ammonia (NH₃) emissions from a double-cropped rice field. As suggested by the title, the research quantified emissions under different management scenarios.

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