Effects of Different Nitrogen Levels and Planting Densities on the Quality and Quantity of 'Nunkeunheugchal' Rice

'Nunkeunheugchal' is a waxy black rice variety that has a large embryo. The quality of black rice depends on the anthocyanin content of the rice seed coat, which is mainly determined by cultivation environment. Factors that affect the anthocyanin content include nitrogen level, planting density, transplanting date and harvesting date. This study was carried out to investigate the optimum black rice cultivation conditions by examining the effects of different nitrogen levels and planting densities. An initial study was conducted to determine the optimum nitrogen level in which four levels of nitrogen were applied to the field (0, 4, 8 and 12 kg/10a). As the nitrogen contents were increased up to 8 kg/10a, there was a concomitant increase in rice yields. However, nitrogen levels greater than 8 kg/10a, the yield was maintained at the same level. Correlation analysis indicated that the optimum nitrogen level for maximum yield was 9.6 kg/10a. In addition, anthocyanin levels showed a trend similar to that of yield, with correlation analysis indicating that the optimum nitrogen level for maximum anthocyanin content is 10.6 kg/10a.On the basis of these results, a second study was conducted to determine the optimum combination of planting density and nitrogen level. The planting densities investigated were 30 x 12, 30 x 14, 30 x 16cm and nitrogen levels were 7, 9 and 12 kg/10a. A high planting density (30 x 12cm) was shown to produce higher numbers of tillers and yield. As calculated in the first study, a nitrogen level of 9 kg/10a shown to produce the highest anthocyanin content and yield. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that a planting density of 30 x× 12 cm and a nitrogen level of 9 kg/10a is the optimal combination in terms of maximizing both rice yield and anthocyanin content.