Potato: Information on Seed Treatment

In potato farming, seed treatment before sowing is extremely important. This process not only protects the crop from various fungal diseases but also reduces the likelihood of seed rot. Treated seeds have better germination rates, leading to an increase in both the number and quality of plants. Additionally, it helps control pathogens present in the soil and provides protection against insect attacks. As a result of this process, higher potato yields become possible. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the methods of seed treatment before sowing potatoes and its benefits, so you can ensure a successful crop.

Seed Treatment in Potatoes

It is best to treat seeds 24 hours before sowing, as this protects them from diseases and pests and increases their germination potential. This leads to better plant growth and improves both the quality and yield of the crop.

• Trichoderma viride: Mix 4 grams of Trichoderma viride per kilogram of seed. This natural fungicide controls soil-borne diseases. Soak the seeds in this fungicidal solution for 20 minutes, 24 hours before sowing, and then dry them in the shade before planting.
• Neev (Tebuconazole 2% DS): Treat 1 to 2 grams of Neev per kilogram of potato seeds. This helps protect against fungal diseases, improving crop growth.
• Saabu [Carbendazim + Mancozeb (12% + 63% WP)]: Use 2.5 grams of this mixture per kilogram of seed. It provides protection against fungal diseases and ensures healthy germination of potatoes, increasing crop quality and yield.
• DeHaat Xotic Gold [Metalaxyl + Mancozeb (8% + 64% WP)]: Prepare a solution by mixing 3 grams of this input in one liter of water. Spray it on the seed tubers or soak them for 30 minutes. This protects potatoes from fungal diseases and keeps the tubers healthy.
• DeHaat Asear [Thiamethoxam (25% WG)]: Prepare a solution by mixing 1 gram of this medicine in one liter of water. Spray it on the seed tubers or soak them for 30 minutes. This treatment helps promote uniform germination and increases yield.
• DeHaat Asear FS [Thiamethoxam (30% FS)]: Mix 1.32 to 4 ml of this medicine per kilogram of seed. It controls sucking pests in the early stages of the plants, keeping the crop safe.

Why is Seed Treatment Necessary?

• Protection from Fungal Diseases: The main purpose of seed treatment is to protect seeds from fungal diseases such as blight, rhizoctonia, and scabs. These diseases can damage potato tubers and significantly reduce crop yield.
• Prevention of Seed Rot: Seed rot is a common issue after sowing, which can affect germination. Seed treatment can reduce the likelihood of seeds rotting.
• Protection from Soil-Borne Diseases: Pathogenic bacteria and fungi present in the soil can attack plant roots. Seed treatment helps mitigate the impact of these pathogens in the soil.
• Enhanced Germination: Treated seeds germinate faster and more uniformly, leading to a greater number of plants. This strengthens the initial growth of the plants and promotes quicker development.
• Improvement in Crop Quality: Treated seeds produce healthier plants, resulting in higher yields and better-quality crops.

Benefits of Seed Treatment Before Sowing

• Treating seeds can protect potato crops from various fungal diseases, leading to better crop health.
• Treated seeds reduce the likelihood of seed rot, helping to grow healthier plants.
• Treated seeds have better germination rates, resulting in a larger number of plants and stronger early growth.
• Seed treatment reduces the impact of pathogens present in the soil, keeping plants healthy.
• Treated seeds yield higher-quality potatoes, which sell for a good price in the market.
• Seed treatment protects potato crops from various pests, leading to increased production.
• Treating seeds decreases the likelihood of soil-borne diseases, improving overall crop health.

Do you treat potato seeds before sowing? Share your answers and experiences with us in the comments. To get more information like this, make sure to follow the 'Agri Doctor' channel. Also, don’t forget to like and share this post to spread the information to other farmer friends!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How should potato seeds be treated?

A: Potato seeds should be treated about 24 hours before sowing. First, if the potato tubers are large, cut them into smaller pieces, ensuring each piece has an eye. Then, soak the seeds in a chemical solution mixed with 4 grams of Trichoderma viride or 2 grams of Carbendazim per kilogram of seed for 20 minutes. After that, dry the seeds in the shade for 30-40 minutes. This process enhances the disease resistance of the seeds and improves their germination rate.

Q: How many days before sowing should the seed treatment be done?

A: Potato seeds should be treated 24 hours before sowing. This timing is crucial as it maintains the freshness and activity of the seeds, which is essential for germination. Properly treated seeds at the right time improve the quality and yield of the crop, resulting in better profits for farmers.

Q: What is the correct way to plant potatoes?

A: To plant potatoes, prepare the field well and make the soil crumbly. Create holes and place 2-3 healthy seeds in each, at a depth of 10-15 centimeters, and cover them lightly with soil. Water the plants regularly and take care of them. Planting with the right method ensures the healthy growth of potato plants.

Q: Which fungicide is used for the seed treatment of potatoes?

A: Trichoderma viride and Carbendazim are used for the treatment of potato seeds. Trichoderma viride is a biological fungus that controls pathogens in the soil, while Carbendazim prevents fungal growth. Using these fungicides in the correct ratio reduces the incidence of diseases in the crop.

Q: How to increase the size of potatoes?

A: To increase potato size, select healthy and large tubers and add nutrients during field preparation. Water the plants regularly, especially when they are in the flowering stage. Use organic and chemical fertilizers appropriately and ensure protection against diseases and pests periodically. These measures can help improve the size and quality of potatoes.