Effect of seed pelleting on seed quality and seedling growth of small seed of maize
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Abstract
Background and Objective: Small-sized maize seeds are often less preferred by farmers because of their lower vigor and poorer field establishment, resulting in reduced utilization and economic losses. This study evaluated the effectiveness of different pelleting materials in improving the physical and physiological quality of small seeds of maize (Zea mays L.) inbred line Tak Fa 1.
Methodology: The experiment was conducted at the Khon Kaen Seed Research and Development Center and the Nakhon Sawan Field Crops Research Center from May 2023 to July 2024. Maize seeds were classified into small (16/64 inch), medium (18/64 inch), and large (20/64 inch) size classes. Small seeds were pelleted using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose as a binder with bentonite, vermiculite, talcum, or pumice as filler materials. Unpelleted small, medium, and large seeds served as controls. Laboratory experiments were arranged in a completely randomized design, while field experiments followed a randomized complete block design with four replications. Seed physical traits, germination, vigor, field emergence, and seedling growth were evaluated.
Main Results: Pelleting increased seed size from 16/64 inch to approximately 18/64 inch and improved seed uniformity. Germination remained high under both laboratory and field conditions, indicating that pelleting did not adversely affect seed viability. Bentonite- and vermiculite-pelleted seeds exhibited significantly greater vigor than unpelleted small seeds, as evidenced by higher germination after accelerated aging and faster emergence under field conditions. These materials also improved seedling establishment and overall field performance. Talcum and pumice promoted early seedling growth but were less effective in maintaining seed vigor under aging stress.
Conclusions: Bentonite and vermiculite were the most effective pelleting materials for improving seed size, vigor, stress tolerance, and field establishment of small Tak Fa 1 maize seeds. Seed pelleting enhanced the value and utilization of small seeds without compromising seed quality, resulting in performance comparable to commercially accepted seed grades.
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