Most seed put into the ground in the Midwest is treated, but the jury is still out as to the most effective use of chemical and biological additives. There’s little doubt that treatments are beneficial but there’s much to be learned.
“What’s probably getting more growth is on the inoculants side,” said Connor Sible, a University of Illinois professor who has conducted various research projects on treatments.
He said inoculants are increasingly being chosen for aiding plant growth rather than battling pests.
“A lot of products added are targeting nutrient availability,” he said. “There’s been a lot of research in the (United) States and internationally – greenhouse studies in very controlled environments.”
An extensive study by scientists at REVA University in Bangalore, India, indicates that “seed priming” is a cost-effective strategy for improving plant health and development. The study report compiles information from almost 400 studies worldwide. It shows that biological seed treatments significantly improve germination, seedling emergence, plant biomass, disease control and crop yield.
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