Ag leaders remind farmers about the importance of seed treatments and stewardship
December 2021 was one for the record books in Texas. According to the Texas state climatologist, it was the warmest in more than 130 years. Despite the recent winter weather, the warm December may spell trouble for Texas farmers looking to get their crops off to a strong start this spring.
Plant disease pathogens that are normally knocked back by the cold can thrive during warmer winters, leading to more crop disease the following season. Early season soil-borne diseases can take a big toll on agricultural yields by killing seed and seedlings when they are the most vulnerable.
“Every year it seems Mother Nature finds new ways to keep farmers on their toes,” said Sid Miller, Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture. “Fortunately, farmers have great tools to help manage some of the big challenges of farming. Treated seeds, for example, are a simple, sustainable solution to protect yields against yield-robbing diseases and pests.”
For farmers who choose to use them, treated seeds offer a solution to early season disease and insect pests that damage or kill young crops. Seed treatments enable crops to get off to a strong, healthy start by providing a small, targeted amount of crop protection product below the soil with the developing seed, where it’s needed most.
Stewardship importance
As planting progresses across the state this spring, Commissioner Miller reminded farmers of the importance of following proper seed treatment stewardship practices. “Texas farmers have been doing a great job with handling, storing, planting and disposing of treated seeds, but every year they need to remain vigilant to ensure they are doing the right thing.”
According to Andy LaVigne, president and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), there are a lot of resources available to farmers and applicators to ensure they are appropriately managing these innovative tools.
“It’s important that farmers and applicators be diligent in following guidelines around the proper use and handling of treated seed. Proper stewardship will not only keep treated seed out of grain channels but will help ensure that farmers are getting the most out of their investment in seed genetics,” said LaVigne.
LaVigne reminded growers of a few key steps they should take when using seed treatments:
–Follow label directions on treated seed container labeling for handling, storage, planting and disposal practices.
–Eliminate flowering weeds in and around the field prior to planting.
–Clean and remove all treated seed left in containers and equipment used to handle harvested grain and dispose of it properly. Keep all treated seed out of commodity grain channels.
–Minimize dust using advanced seed flow lubricants if suggested by the seed company.
–Be aware of honeybees and hive locations near the field at planting, and communicate with beekeepers when possible.
ASTA and other stakeholder groups offer a variety of educational resources to assist those involved in the process of treating, handling, transporting and planting treated seeds. For more information about proper stewardship guidelines for growers and seed treatment applicators, visit seed-treatment-guide.com.
