Seed treatment is a critical step in the process of nursery sowing in paddy. The main goal of seed treatment is to ensure that the seedlings are healthy, disease-free and can achieve their growth potential. Paddy is one of the essential crops in the world, widely consumed, and hence, it is essential to follow the right steps for its cultivation. This article will explore the various methodologies used for seed treatment in nursery sowing in paddy.
1. Dry Heat Treatment: Dry heat treatment is one of the most commonly used methodologies used for seed treatment in paddy. This involves exposing the seeds to hot air at temperatures of around 70-85 degrees Celsius for a specific duration of time to eliminate seeds containing fungi, bacteria, or any other pathogens. This treatment ensures both seed quality and enhances its germination rate.
2. Chemical Treatment: Seeds are treated at nursery sowing through chemical treatment methodology, implying its soaking in a chemical solution. The chemicals are generally fungicides. For instance, the seeds may be soaked in Carbendazim (Bavistin) for a minimum of eight hours and then allowed to dry in light for half a day before being used for nursery sowing. This treatment is effective in removing seed-borne diseases and ensuring a better germination rate.
3. Bio-priming: Bio-priming is an organic methodology of seed treatment in paddy that involves treating seeds with bio-agents, which are natural and derived from organic sources. This involves the root-zone inoculation of seeds with a pre-mix of live organic yeast, fungi, or bacteria, which are beneficial for the growth of the plant. Generally, the bio-priming process is carried out for up to 24 hours, which helps in enhancing the quality of seedlings and yield.
4. Seed Coating: Seed coating is a method in which the surface of the seed is coated when sowing. This coating may contain nutrient compounds, fungicides, or microorganisms (bacteria or fungi). This treatment helps to elevate the seed quality along with protecting it during nursery sowing.
In conclusion, in the process of nursery sowing in paddy, proper seed treatment methodologies must be used to ensure healthy and disease-free growth of the seedlings. Seed treatment measures such as dry heat treatment, chemical treatment, bio-priming, and seed coating have proven to be effective methodologies of seed treatment in paddy. Through selecting and applying the correct seed treatment, farmers can amplify the paddy yields, along with promoting crops’ health.