How To Choose Seed Treatment

A common question in spring is whether to treat seed or not. While seed treatment cannot improve seed quality, it can preserve quality. Preserving seed quality can help with plant establishment, especially in challenging conditions.

The following factsheet outlines the common seedling diseases and insect pests that pose threat to plant establishment, grain yield or grain quality. It also lists the available seed treatment products and their effectiveness.

Seed Treatments in Spring Wheat and Durum Production

For more details on seed treatment products, consult The Bluebook and/or local agronomists.

Keep in mind, seed treatments are not the silver bullet. Other BMPs such as seed testing, residue management and crop rotation can be used to maximize the benefit of seed treatments. If the seed has poor germination and/or high pathogen infection that may pose a risk to plant establishment, consider using a different seedlot.