8 - Seed biopriming a novel method to control seed borne diseases of crops

Abstract

In the present days, biopriming serves as a novel method for treatment of seeds adversely affected by several seeds/soilborne pathogens present in the rhizosphere. Treatment of seeds with such BCAs either fungal or bacterial offer an important means of controlling several devastating seed and soil originated diseases. Seed bio-priming integrates biological (treatment of seed with useful organism) and physiological aspects (seed hydration) of seed germination and thereby present a better management approach against numerous fungal and bacterial pathogens in comparison to stereotype chemical treatments. Moreover, it is an eco-friendly and cost-effective methodology which utilize the expertise of certain useful fungal and bacterial antagonists to protect plants from lethal pathogens. Therefore, no doubt, this approach may provide an effective substitute to unlimited reckless use of pesticides. In many agricultural and horticultural crops, seed priming was used as the best tool to enhance germination rate and uniformity. Therefore, seed priming alone or in combination with compatible fungicides and/or biocontrol has been used to improve the rate and uniformity emergence of seed and decrease many seedborne disease.