Seed treatment is a process of application either by mixing, coating, or soaking seeds in solutions of chemicals or protectants (with fungicidal, insecticidal, bactericidal, nematicidal, or bio-pesticidal properties), nutrients, hormones, or growth regulators. It can also involve subjecting seeds to a process of wetting and drying or treating them to reduce, control, or repel disease organisms, insects, or other pests that attack seeds or seedlings. Seed treatment also includes controlling pests when the seed is in storage and after it has been sown or planted.
The seed treatment is done for the following reasons:
– To protect against seed-borne pests and diseases.
– To protect against or repel birds and rodents.
– To supply plant nutrients.
– To inoculate microorganisms.
– To supply growth regulators.
– To supply selective herbicides.
– To break seed dormancy.
– To induce drought tolerance.
– To induce a higher germination percentage and early emergence.
– To obtain polyploids (genetic variation) by treating with X-rays, gamma rays, and colchicines.
– To facilitate mechanized sowing.
