Farming rice can occur successfully anywhere, although rice does best in areas with very high rainfall. This is because rice producers typically flood their rice fields to assist with pest control. Rice production in the United States began in southern states during the mid-1800s, and California got in on the act in the early 20th century.

Organic rice farming is also on the rise, as demand for organic rice products continues to increase. Whether you are considering organic rice farming, the brown rice business, or growing wild rice or some other rice variety, keep the following in mind:

1. Research rice seed providers to grow the best rice crop you can.

2. Check out farming equipment designed for rice growers, including rice seeders.

3. Consider organic rice farming.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find high-quality rice seeds to create the best rice crop possible

Get your rice crop off on the right foot by purchasing rice seeds that will thrive under your climate and soil conditions.

I recommend: AgriSeek is a forum that allows you to buy and sell rice seeds, among other agricultural products and services. Find all kinds of seeds, including rice seeds, from Organica Seeds.

Explore seeding equipment for rice growers

Seeding equipment can save an incredible amount of time during planting season. Best of all, most seeders can be used for plants other than your rice crop.

I recommend: John Deere has a nice selection of seeding and planting equipment for producers of rice. Agriscape is a great source for new and used planters and seeders.

Consider a rice harvester for your rice business

A rice harvester is similar to other grain harvesters, although it is built even tougher to handle abrasive rice hulls. Again, this type of farm equipment can help you increase the amount of rice you can harvest each season, thereby growing your business.

I recommend: Find new and used rice harvesters at GrainFarmer.com. TractorHouse.com is another great source for rice harvesting equipment.

Consider organic rice farming

Organic rice farming involves using agricultural methods and materials that are not harmful to the environment. The demand for all kinds of organic products, including organic rice is on the rise, and rice farmers are responding.

I recommend: To help your organic rice crop, consider using crop rotation, animal manure additions and organic fertilizers. Echochem offers CB-RSG2, an organic, water-soluble fertilizer that works well with rice crops and other grains. True Organic Products specializes in organic fertilizers for farmers and farmers only.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't forget about the many lucrative byproducts of growing rice, such as leftover rice hulls that can then be used in animal feed or as a fertilizer, as well as assist with moisture retention and weed control in future rice crops.