Seed treatment is an important practice to ensure healthy plant growth and optimum yield in paddy farming. Proper seed treatment is critical for nursery sowing in paddy, making it essential for farmers to understand how to do it. In this article, we will discuss the importance of seed treatment and guide you through the process of seed treatment for nursery sowing in paddy.
Importance of Seed Treatment in Paddy Farming
Seed treatment helps to enhance the quality of the seed, improves seed germination rate, and increases plants’ resistance to pests and diseases. Seed-borne diseases such as bacterial leaf blight, blast, and brown spot can be prevented through proper seed treatment. Seed-borne pests such as stem borers and leaf folders can also be reduced through seed treatment. Additionally, seed treatment helps to increase seed vigour and vigour index, which is crucial in ensuring rapid and healthy plant growth.
Steps for Seed Treatment in Nursery Sowing in Paddy
Step 1: Seed Selection
The first step in seed treatment is to select healthy and disease-free seeds. A farmer should choose seeds that are of good quality, free from pests and diseases, and uniform in size.
Step 2: Cleaning
The second step is to clean the seeds. Farmers should clean and remove the debris, broken and discoloured seeds that can negatively affect the seed quality.
Step 3: Soaking
The third step is to soak the seeds in water or a seed treatment solution. Soaking in water aims to remove any dirt, dust, or other impurities from the seed surface. Soaking in a seed treatment solution can improve seed germination rates and plant growth. Some of the commonly used seed treatment solutions include trichoderma, thiram, carbendazim and other bio and chemical fungicides.
Step 4: Drying
After soaking, the seeds should be drained, and any excess water should be removed. The seeds should then be laid out to dry in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight. It is essential to ensure that the seeds are completely dry before planting.
Step 5: Storage
The last step is to store the treated seeds in a dry and cool place. Farmers should keep the seeds away from direct sunlight and moisture, which can harm the seeds’ quality and performance.
In conclusion, seed treatment for nursery sowing in paddy is an essential practice that ensures healthy plant growth and optimum yield. By following the steps outlined in this article, farmers can improve the quality of their seeds, increase germination rate, and protect their crops from pests and diseases. Proper seed treatment is key to a successful paddy farming business.