seedapplied

Seed-applied products, also called seed treatments, are agricultural formulations applied to seeds prior to planting. They deliver pesticides, nutrients, or biologicals into the seed zone to protect the germinating embryo and support early growth, often reducing the need for subsequent foliar applications.

Common formulations include seed coatings, film coatings, or microencapsulated granules that adhere to the seed surface or surrounding seedling. Active ingredients span fungicides (e.g., tebuconazole, metalaxyl, thiabendazole), insecticides and nematicides (e.g., imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam), as well as micronutrients and biologicals like beneficial microbes.

The benefits include improved seedling emergence, stand establishment, and early vigor, enhanced protection against soil-borne pathogens and early pests, and potential reductions in chemical usage later in the season. Seed treatments can also improve uniformity of crop establishment and may facilitate no-till or reduced-tillage systems where foliar sprays are more challenging.

Considerations include cost, potential phytotoxicity or seed damage if misapplied, regulatory and label requirements, compatibility with seed varieties and other agronomic inputs, and concerns about non-target impacts or resistance development. Shelf-life and storage conditions can affect efficacy.

Use is widespread in row crops such as corn, soybeans, canola, and wheat, as well as vegetables and ornamentals, though adoption varies by region and crop, with decisions guided by pest pressure, economic thresholds, and integrated pest management strategies.