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Agronomy Science Baner text

Vol. 80 No. 4 (2025)

Articles

Preliminary assessment of the effectiveness of non-chemical methods of maize seed treatment

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/as.2025.5548
Submitted: August 13, 2025
Published: 31.12.2025

Abstract

Many plant diseases are transmitted through seeds. Thus, seed dressing is the first and most important protective measure. It promotes germination, increases seed vigour, improves rooting, and effectively controls pathogens. Due to the reduction of chemical plant protection products on the market, new products are being sought. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to preliminarily assess non-fungicidal methods that significantly reduce seed contamination before sprouting and do not affect germination rates and initial maize growth. The following non-fungicidal seed surface-sterilisation methods were tested: hypochlorous acid, sodium and calcium hypochlorite, peracetic acid and non-ionic nanosilver for 5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes of soaking. Dish and pot experiments were carried out. Among the tested treatments, hypochlorous acid and calcium hypochlorite were the most effective, resulting in the least seed contamination and the highest maize germination. These treatments also significantly enhanced plant height, root elongation and its fresh weight. However, the remaining treatment methods using sodium hypochlorite, peracetic acid and nanosilver were ineffective. Additionally, a pot experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of non-fungicide seed treatments. The positive effect of hypochlorous acid and calcium hypochlorite on germination capacity, plant growth and weight, as well as its physiological condition, was also confirmed.

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