How to manage sesame during the seedling stage? Latest technical methods tutorial

The seedling stage of sesame is the period from emergence to budding, about one month or so. This stage is the vegetative growth period of sesame, but sesame seedlings grow slowly and are extremely vulnerable to weed infestation, pests and diseases during the seedling stage. Therefore, strengthening seedling stage management is the key point for ensuring stable and increased sesame yields. Let's take a detailed look below.

1. Checking and replanting seedlings

Normally, sesame emerges within one week after sowing, so seedlings should be checked in time. Once it is found that seedlings have not emerged in time or emergence is incomplete, the cause should be identified promptly and corresponding measures taken. For missing seedlings, transplant seedlings in time to fill the gaps, and where the missing seedlings are severe, promptly re-sow with the same variety after presprouting. After sowing, when rain occurs followed by long periods of clear weather, the soil is very prone to crusting and forming a hard layer, which is unfavorable for seedling emergence and growth. Loosen the soil and water in time to break up the crust and promote seedling emergence.

2. Thinning and final singling of seedlings

After sesame seedlings grow uniformly, thin them in time. Thinning is generally carried out when the seedlings have grown one pair of true leaves, separating clustered seedlings and removing dense seedlings. A second thinning is carried out when 2-3 pairs of true leaves have grown, and final singling begins when the fourth pair of true leaves has grown. The timing of final singling should not be too early, especially during periods when pests and diseases are severe; thin more seedlings and keep some strong seedlings for replanting. Before final singling, water thoroughly, then transplant with soil; it is best to do this in the evening or on cloudy days. After final singling, water promptly with root-setting water to help survival.

3. Cultivation and weeding

Cultivation and weeding during the seedling stage is an important task. The timing and depth of cultivation should be based on the weather, soil and seedling growth conditions. Generally, the first cultivation is carried out at the first thinning; at this time cultivation should be shallow rather than deep, mainly for weeding and preserving soil moisture, so as to avoid damaging seedling roots by cultivating too deeply. The second cultivation is carried out at the second thinning, with a cultivation depth of 5-6 cm being appropriate. The third cultivation is carried out after final singling, when the seedlings have grown the fifth pair of true leaves; at this time the depth can reach 8-10 cm. After the seedlings bud, cultivation is still needed. At the last cultivation, earth up to cover the roots, so as to facilitate drainage and irrigation, remove waterlogging damage and drought, reduce diseases, and prevent lodging, etc. In addition, weeds should be removed whenever they appear.

4. Pest and disease control

The main pests and diseases of sesame during the seedling stage include Fusarium wilt, viral disease, damping-off, black cutworm, aphids, etc. They all affect sesame growth and, in severe cases, cause missing seedlings and broken rows. Before planting, seed can be treated with Shileshi (difenoconazole) agent and carbofuran mixed into the soil for disinfection and sterilization. During production, larvae can be caught manually, egg masses wiped off, diseased plants detected in time and pulled out and taken out of the field for destruction, then carbendazim and chlorpyrifos EC sprayed for control.

The above is an introduction to sesame seedling stage management techniques. We hope it helps you. For more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.