Seed treatment is an important process in cultivating paddy, also known as jhona. This is because paddy is a water-loving plant that can be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Seed treatment can help increase the yield of crops, improve the quality of seeds, and protect them from various diseases and pests.
The first step to seed treatment for paddy is to choose high-quality seeds. High-quality seeds are more likely to produce healthy and robust plants. When selecting seeds, it is important to look for those that are of uniform size, shape, and weight. The seed should be free of cracks, cuts, and other signs of damage.
Once the seeds have been selected, they should be cleaned thoroughly to remove any debris or dirt. Then, they should be soaked in water for about 24 hours. This can help prevent germination failure and ensure that the seeds are evenly moist.
After soaking, the seeds should be treated with a fungicide. This is important to protect against fungal diseases that can be spread through soil or water. The fungicide should be applied according to the instructions on the label.
In addition to fungicide, the seeds can also be treated with insecticide to protect against insects and pests. This is particularly important for paddy crops, as they can be susceptible to various pests like stem borers, leaf folders, and brown plant hoppers.
After the seeds have been treated with fungicide and insecticide, they should be dried in the shade for a few hours. This can help prevent moisture buildup and the growth of mold or fungi.
Finally, the seeds can be sown in soil that has been tilled and fertilized. It is important to plant the seeds at the right depth and with the right spacing to ensure that the plants have enough room to grow and develop.
In conclusion, seed treatment is an important process in cultivating paddy. It can help protect against diseases and pests, increase yields, and improve the quality of seeds. By following these steps, farmers can ensure that their paddy crops are healthy, robust, and bountiful.