Influence of varied moisture regimes at different growth phases on yield components in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

A decrease in growth and yield components of Rasi and IR 20 was observed with moisture stress at vegetative phase which could be reversed when no stress conditions were created in the successive phases. The reproductive and ripening phases were vulnerable and crucial for moisture stress which resulted in permanent damage to growth and yield factors. The panicle number was not influenced by the different moisture regimes, thereby indicating that the stress created is not severe in a high humid environment like the monsoon season. Similarly, yield also did not affect in the monsoon season while reduced yields were recorded in rabi season. Ripening phase appeared to be crucial and irreversible. Rasi showed its supertoiity for moisture stress during ripening phase.