Certainly, here is an article on the seed treatment of the gram crop:
Gram, also known as chickpeas, is an important pulse crop grown in India. It contributes significantly to food security and is a major source of protein for millions of people. However, the crop is often plagued by various diseases, pests, and environmental stresses that can reduce yields and quality. To overcome these challenges, farmers and researchers use seed treatments to protect the seeds from such factors and ensure healthy and vigorous crop growth.
Seed treatment is the process of applying certain chemicals or biological agents to the seed before planting. The treatment aims to protect the seed from soil-borne pathogens, insects, and other stresses during germination and early growth stages. There are different seed treatment methods available, including fungicidal, insecticidal, and biocontrol agents, each with specific functionalities and advantages.
One of the most common seed treatment methods for chickpeas is to use a combination of fungicides and insecticides. Fungicides are used to control soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Rhizoctonia, while insecticides protect the seedlings from pests like thrips, aphids, and whiteflies. These chemicals are typically applied by coating the seed in a slurry mixture, which helps to evenly distribute the active ingredients on the seed surface and ensure uniform treatment.
Another emerging seed treatment method for chickpeas is to use biocontrol agents such as rhizobia bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi. These beneficial microbes help to establish a symbiotic relationship with the plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake, plant growth, and disease resistance. Rhizobia bacteria can fix atmospheric nitrogen and convert it into a form that the plant can use, while mycorrhizal fungi can form a network of hyphae that increase the soil surface area, allowing the plant to explore larger soil volumes, and access nutrients more efficiently.
Overall, seed treatment is a crucial component of chickpea production, as it helps to ensure healthy and vigorous seedlings, improve crop establishment, and ultimately increase yields and profitability. However, it’s important to choose the right seed treatment method for your specific growing conditions and disease pressures. Consult with your local agronomist or seed treatment specialist to select the appropriate treatment and use it properly to maximize your crop’s potential.