IMPACT OF SOIL PH AND ORGANIC CARBON CONTENT ON LEAF MORPHOLOGY AND YIELD INDICES IN HYBRID RICE CULTIVARS

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of soil pH and organic carbon content on leaf morphology and yield indices in hybrid rice cultivars, aiming to identify optimal soil conditions for maximizing crop productivity. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) field experiment was conducted using three hybrid rice cultivars grown under varying soil pH levels (acidic, neutral, and alkaline) and organic carbon concentrations (low, medium, and high). Key morphological traits—leaf length, width, area, and specific leaf weight—alongside yield components such as 1000-grain weight and total grain yield, were systematically measured. The results demonstrated that neutral pH (6.5–7.0) combined with medium-to-high organic carbon content significantly enhanced leaf development and photosynthetic traits. Cultivars grown under these optimal conditions exhibited longer and wider leaves, greater leaf area, and higher chlorophyll content, contributing to improved assimilate production and translocation. Furthermore, a marked increase in grain yield was observed under these conditions, with the highest 1000-grain weight and yield per hectare recorded in cultivars HR2 and HR3. Statistical analyses confirmed strong positive correlations between organic carbon levels, leaf traits, and grain yield. Figures and heatmaps illustrated the interconnectedness of soil properties, morphological responses, and yield outputs, emphasizing the importance of edaphic factors in determining crop performance. These findings highlight the necessity of integrating soil pH regulation and organic matter enrichment into sustainable nutrient management practices. Overall, this study provides actionable insights for optimizing rice cultivation strategies, enhancing both productivity and soil health in diverse agroecosystems.