An Agronomist and product developer, Eric Asante, has highlighted some potential benefits of seed nursing before transferring them for transplanting.
Mr Asante says the nursery of seeds before transplanting improves germination and colonisation, saves time, space, and labour, and facilitates maintenance.
In an interview with The Ghanaian Farmer, he emphasised the significance of cleanliness and proper sanitation to improve the quality of nursed seeds.
“The soil or field for the nursery needs to be weed-free, sterilizing nursery trays, while preheating the soils for the nursery to rid of any pests and diseases. It is also necessary to ensure that the bed for the nursery is smooth,” he said.
He also indicated that it is imperative to consider the timing for nursing the seeds, suggesting that evening time between 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM should be ideal, allowing the seeds to settle in the cool soils as night falls.
Providing further guidance to farmers engaged in seed nurseries before transplanting, Mr Asante advised them to keep the nursery seeds moist and avoid over-watering, which can lead to seed decay.
“For seed nurseries, it’s crucial to ensure proper soil preparation and management to promote healthy seedling growth. Regular monitoring of seedling density helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to competition for resources. Adequate irrigation and moisture management are essential, especially during the germination phase,” Mr. Asante noted.
Mr. Eric Asante believes that implementing pest control measures safeguards seedlings from potential threats that could hinder their development. Seed nurseries are vital as they provide a controlled environment for seedlings, ensuring higher germination rates and better quality plants for future planting.
Reporting by Stephen Freeman, Accra
