Seed treatment is an essential part of nursery sowing in paddy cultivation. It is important to protect the seeds from various pests and diseases that can harm the growth and yield of the crop. In this article, we will discuss the importance of seed treatment and the various methods and chemicals used in seed treatment for nursery sowing in paddy.
Importance of seed treatment
Seed treatment is important for paddy cultivation for a number of reasons. Firstly, seed treatment helps in protecting the seedlings from pests and diseases. Secondly, it promotes better germination and enhances the vigour of the seedlings. Thirdly, it helps in better seedling growth and establishment, which ultimately leads to higher yields.
Methods of seed treatment
There are different methods of seed treatment that can be used for nursery sowing in paddy. Some of the common methods are:
1. Hot water treatment – This method involves soaking the seeds in hot water to kill the seed-borne pathogens. Seeds are usually soaked for about 15-20 minutes in water that is heated to 52°C.
2. Chemical treatment – This method involves using a chemical solution to treat the seeds. Common chemicals used for seed treatment include thiram, carbendazim, and captan.
3. Biological treatment – This method involves using beneficial microorganisms like rhizobacteria and mycorrhiza to protect the seeds from pests and diseases.
4. Combination treatment – This method involves using a combination of different seed treatments to enhance the effectiveness of seed treatment.
Chemicals used in seed treatment
Chemicals are widely used in seed treatment to protect the seeds from pests and diseases. Some of the chemicals commonly used for seed treatment in paddy nursery sowing are:
1. Thiram – Thiram is a fungicide that is used to control seed-borne diseases like blast and smut.
2. Carbendazim – Carbendazim is a broad-spectrum fungicide that is used to control a range of seed-borne diseases.
3. Captan – Captan is a fungicide that is used to control a range of seed-borne diseases like seed rot, damping off, and anthracnose.
It is important to note that the use of chemicals should be done under expert supervision to ensure that the right dosage is used and the seedlings are not damaged.
Conclusion
Proper seed treatment is crucial for nursery sowing in paddy cultivation. Seed treatment not only protects the seedlings from pests and diseases but also enhances their growth and yield. Nursery sowing is the foundation of paddy cultivation, and therefore seed treatment should be given utmost importance to ensure a successful crop. Farmers should be aware of the various methods and chemicals used in seed treatment and should seek expert guidance to determine the best approach for their specific needs.