LITTLE ROCK, AR -- As planting season begins across the country, USA Rice reminds farmers to follow basic steps for stewardship of treated seed. Seed treatments help protect the developing seed during its most vulnerable time – at planting and germination.
It’s important to always follow label directions on seed containers for proper handling, storage, planting, and disposal to minimize risk to applicators, wildlife, and the environment.
Be sure to eliminate flowering plants and weeds in the field prior to planting. Minimize dust by using advanced seed flow lubricants. “BeeAware” of honeybees and hives located near the field, and ensure that any spilled seeds are removed or covered by soil to protect wildlife and the environment. Finally, remove all treated seed left in containers and equipment.
“Most rice planted in the southern U.S. has been treated,” said Dr. Steve Linscombe, who worked at the Louisiana State University Rice Research Center for 35 years before joining USA Rice in 2017. “Typically, the treatment contains fungicides to control seedling diseases, and an insecticide to control a complex of troublesome rice insects during the growing season.”
For more information, visit
seed-treatment-guide.com. Join in the conversation online using #Plant22.