Does film coating affect seed performance?
Seed film coating has an undeniable effect on seed vigor and therefore seed performance. But what exactly is that effect and how does it happen? This article looks at these topics and at the synergetic relationship between film coating and seed treatment additives.
What is seed vigor
Seed vigor is the unsung hero of successful crop establishment. Think of it as the seed’s superpower— the ability to withstand field stresses and produce a robust plant. But here’s the catch: even seeds with high vigor can succumb to adverse conditions. Seed vigor can’t be boosted directly. Instead, we rely on seed treatments including film coating to enhance its manifestation. Let’s dive into the science behind it.
How can we increase vigor?
Unfortunately, we can’t. Seed vigor is acquired during seed development. But once the seed has matured, there’s no leveling up. In fact, there is a high likelihood that it will deteriorate irreversibly under influence of both biotic and abiotic stresses as well as physical factors. And if these circumstances worsen, they can ultimately result in complete loss of seed viability.
(A)biotic stress and seed vigor: the balancing act
Abiotic stresses (such as water deficit and temperature fluctuations) reduce the speed of germination and seedling emergence, allowing biotic stresses (pathogens and pests) to exploit the seed’s vulnerable state and compromise plant establishment. It’s a high-stakes game, and seed vigor determines the winner.
Seed treatment & film coating: the dynamic duo
We arm seeds with seed-treatment additives like insecticides and fungicides to equip them against sanitary pressure. And the film coating ensures that these additives stay on the seed. No leaching, no loss of efficacy during handling, even if exposed to the soil for a prolonged period. It’s like giving seeds a protective shield that fixes the actives, prevents abrasion and minimizes dust-off. Not just in the field but during the entire handling process.
The final act: boosting plantability
Film coating isn’t just about defense; it’s offense too. If seeds are sown without proper regard for the distance between them, they will compete for the resources available. This influences the structure and dynamics of plant communities and agricultural systems and is not good for species diversity and agricultural productivity. By preventing this from happening, optimal resources remain available to each plant and productivity is increased. During sowing, seeds coated with a quality film coat flow smoothly through the planting equipment, like a well-choreographed dance. Less empty cells or doubles in the planter means each seed is placed at exactly the right distance from its neighbor. The seeds and seedlings don’t have to compete and there are no dominant plants inhibiting the growth of others.
So, the next time you see a tiny seed, know that it is the film coating, by teaming up with seed treatment additives, that helps the seed’s hidden powers shine through. Together they tackle abiotic stresses head-on, fixing actives on the seed surface and optimizing the availability of resources for the plant.
Carolina Cardoso currently serves as a researcher at Incotec South America. She has spent more than 8 years in dedicated research and development in the science of soybean seeds and other major crops. She recently attained a PhD at FCA/UNESP. Her doctoral research focused on the physiology and quality acquisition of soybean seeds.
