Growth and development of the rice plant involve continuous change. This means important growth events occur in the rice plant at all times. Therefore, the overall daily health of the rice plant is important. If the plant is unhealthy during any state of growth, the overall growth, development and grain yield of the plant are limited. It is important to understand the growth and development of the plant. The ability to identify growth stages is important for proper management of the rice crop. Because management practices are tied to the growth and development of the rice plant, an understanding of the growth of rice is essential for management of a healthy crop. Timing of agronomic practices associat- ed with water management, fertility, pest control and plant growth regulation is the most important aspect of rice management. Understanding the growth and development of the rice plant enables the grower to properly time recommended practices.