Preparing potato seeds for planting.
Preparing potato seeds for planting is an important step in growing this crop. Seeds that have been properly prepared will yield a good harvest and ensure high quality of the product. In this article, we will look at three important procedures: warming, hatching and chemical treatment of potato seeds.
Warming up potato seeds
Potato tubers are living organisms. Throughout the winter, they are dormant and all their vital processes slow down. To restore the vital activity of potatoes, the tubers must feel that favorable conditions have come. To do this, the seeds should be placed in a warm and dry draft for several days. The air temperature should be +8-+12° C.
Germination of potato seeds
Potato seed germination is the process of renewing the potato's vegetation. It occurs after the seed has warmed up sufficiently. This ensures faster germination and greater resistance to disease. When germinating, it is very important that the potatoes are in an environment with high humidity, which will provide optimal conditions for young sprouts. It is also worth providing potatoes with natural or artificial light. This will make the sprouts green and strong. We do not recommend that the temperature be above +12°C, as they may develop too quickly. The optimal sprout length for planting is 5-10 mm. It is not worth getting larger sprouts, as they break off more often during planting, the plant spends more energy on them, and there is no additional impetus for the development of the root system. If your sprouts have reached the required length, it is worth lowering the temperature where the potatoes are stored to +4-+6°C. This will stop further growth and adapt the seed to the conditions in which the potato will grow. After hatching, the seeds should also be air-dried to avoid rot.
Treating potato seeds
Treating potato seeds is a necessary procedure to prevent disease and pest infestation. The best time to treat them is just before or during planting, as the longer the seed is exposed to the treatment, the less effective it is. Seeds can be treated with special disinfectants or folk remedies such as ammonia or manganese solution can be used. Before treating the seeds, you should study the instructions for use in detail and follow the dosage to avoid possible harmful effects on plants and people.
Recommendations for farmers
The main recommendations for preparing potato seeds for planting: use only healthy seeds that do not show signs of disease or damage. Before starting seed preparation, read the instructions for the seed treatment agent in detail or consult a specialist.
- 1) Follow the rules of seed storage. They should be stored in a dry and cool place until preparation.
- 2) Prepared seeds should be planted in the ground no later than two weeks after treatment. If you delay planting, the germination process may be delayed or even stop.
- 3) Use only familiar and proven potato varieties.
- 4) Do not forget to properly care for the plants after planting, including watering and fertilizing.
