Effects of soil packing on seed germination and seedling response

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the methods of post-seeding packing which would be beneficial to wheat seedlings and consequently to suggest the types of packers which could be used to the best advantage on the farm. The experiments were conducted in a humidity controlled chamber with Manitou wheat seeded in clay loam soil. After seeding, the soil samples contained in cylinders were compacted with a flat surface at seed level or above the seed. In some cases loose soil was spread on the soil surface. The control was uncompacted soil sample. In two experiments two layers of soil with different moisture contents were used; wet consolidated soil at the bottom and dry loose soil on top. The depth of seeding was about 6 cm. Kernel moisture absorption, germination emergence and the heights of seedlings were determined. Statistical analyses were carried out on the data. Packing at seed level only, promoted early emergence. This called for an introduction of a packer which would pack the soil at seed level and leave the soil above the seed loose. However packing above the seed was useful when there was enough moisture below while the moisture content of the soil at the seed level was not enough to sustain the seedling up to emergence. In this circumstance, packers on the farm could be usefully employed. Initial moisture absorption rate and germination of the wheat seed was independent of packing for the soil conditions considered.