Effects of different seed coating agents on the germination of Bothriochloa ischaemum seeds

In this study, we evaluated the optimal coating method to prevent the Bothriochloa ischaemum seeds from adhering and wrapping the fluff to improve the seed sowing efficiency. Three different materials were used as fillers with five different binding agents that were added in varying concentrations. The results showed that the number of seeds with embryonic roots breaking through the seed coat was significantly higher in four seed coating agent treatment groups than that in the control group (P < 0.05), namely 1) Filler (Talcum powder: Montmorillonite: Vermiculite = 5 ꞉ 2 ꞉ 3) + adhesive (6% polyvinylpyrrolidone) increased by 9.0% and 20.1%, respectively; 2) Filler (Talcum powder: Vermiculite = 9 ꞉ 1) + adhesive (1.5% carboxymethylcellulose sodium), increased by 10.7% and 15.8%, respectively; 3) Filler (Talcum powder: Vermiculite = 9 ꞉ 1) + adhesive (0.25% methylcellulose), increased by 6.4% and 15.2% respectively; 4) Filler (Talcum powder: Vermiculite = 9 ꞉ 1) and adhesive (0.75% methylcellulose) increased by 7.2% and 20.0%, respectively. The abovementioned seed coating formulas have the potential to solve the problem of fuzz adhesion between seeds, enhance the germination potential and rate, and provide technical support for improving the convenience of sowing B. ischaemum.