Over the past two decades seed enhancement
through seed priming has led to great improvements
in a grower’s ability to routinely achieve this
goal in both the field and greenhouse. Numerous
vegetable and ornamental crop species have been
primed successfully. In order to maintain a superior
product, seed companies have to maintain seed
quality and longevity in the primed seed. Rapid
and uniform field emergence are two essential prerequisites
to increase yield, quality, and ultimately
profits in crops. Uniformity and percentage of
seedling emergence of direct-seeded crops have
a major impact on final yield and quality. Slow
emergence results in smaller plants and seedlings,
which are more vulnerable to soil-borne diseases.
Extended emergence periods predispose the planting
bed to deterioration and increased soil compaction,
particularly under adverse environmental
conditions.