Rice (Oryza sativa)
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❤️ Why you'll love it
A genuine curiosity for the adventurous grower - rice can be raised outdoors in the UK in a warm, sheltered spot or large container kept consistently wet. More a talking point and growing challenge than a reliable harvest in our climate.
🌿 Details
How to grow rice in the UK
Position & Light:
Grow rice in a warm, sunny, sheltered position with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In the UK, a greenhouse, polytunnel or warm conservatory offers the best chance of producing mature grain. Rice is sensitive to cold, so wait until the risk of frost has passed before moving plants outdoors.
Soil & Watering:
Use fertile, moisture-retentive soil or loam-based compost in a large container that can hold water. Keep the soil consistently saturated, and once plants are established, maintain a shallow layer of standing water if growing a traditional paddy-type rice. Never allow the roots to dry out. Container growing is particularly useful in the UK because it allows you to control water levels and protect plants from cold weather.
Feeding:
Rice grows best in fertile soil with a good supply of nutrients. Mix in well-rotted compost before planting and, if necessary, apply a balanced organic fertiliser during active growth. Avoid excessive feeding, as too much nitrogen can encourage leafy growth at the expense of grain production.
Pruning & Maintenance:
Rice does not require routine pruning. Remove dead or damaged leaves and keep an eye on water levels, especially during warm weather. Protect young seedlings from slugs and snails, and consider netting plants if birds begin eating the developing grain. As the grains mature and the panicles turn golden, gradually reduce watering to help the crop ripen and dry.
Common Problems:
- Yellowing leaves: This can indicate a lack of nutrients, cold conditions or problems with the roots.
- Slow growth: Rice needs sustained warmth and sunshine; cool UK summers can significantly delay development.
- Failure to produce ripe grain: Rice needs a long, warm growing season. Growing under cover gives it a better chance of flowering and ripening before autumn.
- Pests: Slugs and snails may damage seedlings, while birds can eat developing grains. Inspect plants regularly and use physical protection where needed.
Supplied bare root, carefully packed with a moisture source to ensure freshness.
Plant height: approximately 10cm.
Please remember that most plants (except Evergreens) are dormant in Autumn/Winter so your order may have no leaves until Spring.
🪴 What Does Bare Root Mean?
Our plants have their full root systems but are carefully removed from the pot and soil before delivery.
The roots are wrapped in moist material and eco-friendly packaging to keep them fresh during transit.
It's less messy, reduces waste, and allows the plant to settle into your garden more easily once planted.
🌱 Sustainably Grown in Britain
Plants are sustainably grown and harvested at our nursery in the South West UK, without the use of pesticides or herbicides.
Packaged using biodegradable materials for an eco-conscious delivery.
📜 Certified & Compliant
We are APHA-authorized for Plant Passports: your assurance that our plants are healthy, pest-free, and meet UK plant health regulations.
🚚 Combined Postage & Fast Dispatch
No extra delivery charge when you buy multiple plants from us! Simply add all the plants you love to your basket and pay one flat delivery fee at checkout.
Shipped via UPS Express, so they are in transit for less than 24 hours: includes care cards tailored to each plant you order.
Orders are sent out at the beginning of each week to reduce time in transit,
see Delivery information.
📌 Planting Advice
Upon arrival, plant immediately in a cool, shaded spot (indoors or outdoors) and water thoroughly.
Once new growth appears, move to the final growing location.
💚 Our Guarantee
If your plant doesn't survive delivery*, just send us a photo and we'll send a replacement (or issue a refund).
No hassle, no worries.
* provided you accept the first delivery attempt