Detailed Explanation of Sesame Seedling Stage Management Techniques
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 highly susceptible to weed infestation, pests and diseases during the seedling stage. Therefore, strengthening seedling stage management is the key point to ensuring stable and increased sesame yields. Let's take a look at the detailed introduction below.
1. Checking and Replanting Seedlings
Sesame generally emerges within one week after sowing, so seedlings should be checked promptly. Once it is found that seedlings cannot emerge in time or emergence is incomplete, the cause should be identified promptly and corresponding measures taken. For missing seedlings, seedlings should be transplanted promptly to fill the gaps, and in cases of severe seedling shortage, the same variety should be pregerminated and resown promptly. When rain occurs after sowing or there is a long sunny period after rain, the soil is highly prone to crusting and forming a hard layer, which is unfavorable for seedling emergence and growth. The soil should be loosened and watered promptly to break up the crust and promote seedling emergence.
2. Thinning and Final Thinning of Seedlings
After sesame seedlings grow uniformly, they should be thinned promptly. Thinning is generally carried out when the seedlings have grown one pair of true leaves, separating clustered seedlings and removing dense ones. A second thinning is carried out when 2-3 pairs of true leaves have grown, and final thinning begins when the fourth pair of true leaves has grown. The timing of final thinning should not be too early, especially during periods of severe pest and disease outbreaks. More thinning should be done, keeping some strong seedlings for use in replanting. Before final thinning, water thoroughly, then transplant with soil attached, preferably in the evening or on cloudy days. After final thinning, water promptly to settle the roots and promote survival.
3. Intertillage and Weeding
Intertillage and weeding during the seedling stage is an important task. The timing and depth of intertillage should be based on weather, soil and seedling growth conditions. Generally, the first intertillage is carried out at the first thinning, and at this time intertillage should be shallow rather than deep, mainly for weed control and moisture conservation, so as to avoid damaging seedling roots from tilling too deep. The second intertillage is carried out at the second thinning, with a suitable depth of 5-6 cm. The third intertillage is carried out after final thinning, when the seedlings have grown the fifth pair of true leaves, and at this time the depth can reach 8-10 cm. After the seedlings bud, intertillage is still needed. At the last intertillage, soil should be hilled up around the roots to facilitate drainage and irrigation, eliminate waterlogging damage and drought, reduce diseases, and prevent lodging. 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, seeds can be treated with the pesticide Shileshi and carbofuran can be mixed into the soil for disinfection and sterilization. During production, larvae can be captured manually, egg masses wiped off, diseased plants discovered and pulled out promptly and taken out of the field for destruction, and then carbendazim and Lorsban emulsifiable concentrate can be sprayed for control.
The above is an introduction to sesame seedling stage management techniques. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.