A study looked at how different ways of watering and levels of nitrogen fertilizer affect how efficiently rice plants use nitrogen. They found that rice plants grew better and used nitrogen more efficiently when they were watered in a way that mimics flooding, compared to controlled watering. Increasing nitrogen levels helped rice plants grow more, but made them less efficient at using nitrogen. However, using 25% less nitrogen than usual didn't affect plant growth or nitrogen use. Overall, flooding the rice fields and using 25% less nitrogen than usual is the best way to grow rice with high yields and efficient nitrogen use.