ANNUAL CROPS

Choosing the right planting material is vital for the success of crop production.

While seeds and seedlings are commonly used for sexually propagated crops, splits, crowns, slips, cuttings, suckers, vines, and stem tubers are essential for vegetative propagation.

a.      High Viability and Germination Rate

§  Planting materials (e.g., seeds) should have a high percentage of germination, typically above 85%.

§  They should be capable of producing healthy seedlings under favorable conditions.

b.     Purity

§  The material should be genetically pure (true-to-type) with no mixing of other crop varieties.

§  Free from weed seeds or other crop seeds.

c.      Free from Pests and Diseases

§  Should not show any signs of infestation or infection.

§  Must be treated (chemically or organically) to prevent early pest/disease attacks.

d.     Uniform Size and Maturity

§  Seeds, tubers, or cuttings should be of uniform size and maturity to ensure even germination and growth.

e.      Good Physical Condition

§  Should be clean, dry, and well-formed.

§  No physical damage (e.g., broken seeds, bruised tubers).

§  Free from mold, rot, or discoloration.

f.      Adapted to Local Conditions

§  Planting materials should be suitable for the local climate and soil conditions.

§  Preferably sourced from reliable local sources or research institutions.

g.     High Yield Potential

·       Should come from a high-yielding variety known for good performance under recommended agronomic practices.

h.     Resistance to Pests and Diseases

·       Preferably from varieties that have been bred for resistance or tolerance to common pests and diseases in the area.

i.       Certified or Quality-Assured

·       Use of certified seeds or planting materials from recognized agencies ensures quality, genetic purity, and performance.

j.       Proper Storage Condition

·       Planting materials should be well-stored to maintain viability—cool, dry, and pest-free storage.

k.     Suitable Moisture Content

·       Especially for seeds, the moisture content should be low (around 10–12%) to ensure longevity and viability.