The role of minimal tillage in rice in Asia, with particular reference to Japan

Abstract

Minimal tillage has been accepted readily by rice farmers in Japan, but more slowly in tropical Asian rice-producing countries, despite the excellent technical results obtained in field trials. The authors discuss the probable reasons for these differences, among which are the Japanese farmer's higher purchasing power and lack of indebtedness, his greater familiarity with pesticides and his opportunity for gainful employment in industry in time that can be spared from agriculture.