Possibility of using biological and physical methods as an alternative to chemical seed treatment

Abstract

An essential prerequisite for high yield is a healthy plant, which will be developed from a healthy seed. Seed quality is affected by many biotic and abiotic factors that decrease yield and its quality, and can be life-threatening to humans and animals if consumed. One of the most efficient and economical methods of achieving and maintaining good health condition of seeds is chemical treatment. Using active ingredients with systemic mode of action, plants will be protected during the most critical period of their development, germination and sprouting. Since pesticides cannot be applied in organic farming, new solutions had to be found for this increasing market. New methods, like high temperatures, low energy electrons, UV and gamma rays, magnetic energy, cold plasma, microorganisms etc. have been tested. Hot humid air and low energy electrons are already being used commercially, with the effects that are equal to chemical treatment. The tests conducted with microorganisms for seed disinfection showed that this method still cannot match the chemical seed treatment. Nevertheless, it has the potential that should be further tested. Perhaps the solution is a combination of biological and physical methods.

Keywords

• seed treatment
• low energy electrons
• biological control
• organic production