Sowing Paddy, Correct Method of Seed Preparation and Treatment

Farmers typically use 80-90 kilograms of seeds per hectare for direct rice sowing, which is not ideal. By reducing the seed rate, production costs can be minimized. For direct seeding, it is recommended to utilize approximately 45 to 50 kilograms of seeds per hectare. However, the seeds should be certified, with a germination capacity of 80-85 percent. If the germination capacity is lower, increasing the seed rate becomes necessary. Pre-treatment of rice seeds before planting is crucial. About 8 kilograms of rice seeds are needed per acre for planting.

Rice Planting with the Lucky Drill:

When using a zero-till or lucky drill for rice planting, ensure that rows are spaced approximately 8-9 inches apart, with seeds placed at a depth of around 1.5 inches. Following planting, lightly roll the field to aid germination within a week. If employing a lucky drill, consider applying pre-emergence herbicide pendimethalin. An alternative method involves field leveling post-wheat harvesting, followed by employing a laser leveler. Subsequently, plant rice seeds using a drill and water the field. Germination typically occurs within a week. It's advisable to plant seeds at a shallow depth to prevent hindrance during flooding, as deep planting may bury seeds too deeply. Immediately post-planting, when the field is ready for watering, contemplate using a broad-spectrum herbicide like pendimethalin, diluted at a rate of 1200 to 1500 milliliters per 200 to 250 liters of water for spraying. This action should be taken promptly after planting.

Treatment of Rice Seeds:

To treat rice seeds, start by dissolving 1 kilogram of salt in 10 liters of water. Then, add 8 kilograms of seeds to the solution and stir gently with a stick. Allow the mixture to sit for a while, letting the lighter seeds float to the surface. Remove the floating seeds from the top. Next, rinse the submerged seeds thoroughly in water three to four times to ensure all salt is removed. For the seed treatment, prepare a solution by mixing 2 grams of streptocycline and 20 grams of Bavistin in 10 liters of water. Submerge the soaked seeds into this solution and let them soak for 24 hours. After the soaking period, remove the seeds from the solution and air-dry them completely in the shade.