Three methods for pre-sowing safety management of newly purchased seeds

1. Close doors and windows. Spring is the season when cold and warm air currents clash with each other. A sudden drop in outside temperature often causes condensation on the surface layer of the seed pile, that is, the seed surface becomes very damp, absorbs a great deal of water vapor, and gradually condenses into tiny water droplets. Seed condensation often leads to seed heating and mold, causing losses. Therefore, when a cold wave arrives, warehouse doors and windows should be kept tightly closed to prevent a sudden drop in temperature inside the warehouse.

2. Kill pests. In spring, temperatures gradually turn warmer, and various pests begin to become active, threatening the safety of stored seeds. Therefore, pesticides should be spread around the warehouse to form a pest-repellent line to reduce pests entering the warehouse. Stored seeds must also be inspected frequently. When inspecting, use the method of dividing into zones and taking samples at fixed points, that is, divide the seed pile into three layers: upper, middle, and lower, with 5 points per layer, for a total of 15 points for sampling, then sift with a small hand sieve about 30 cm in diameter. Generally, after sifting for 3-5 minutes, calculate the pest density (number of insects/kg). Most beetle pests have a death-feigning habit. The insects can be picked out and placed in the palm of the hand, or a breath of warm air can be blown on them, and the pests will begin to crawl. Once signs of damage are found, treatments such as sun-drying, freezing, air sifting, or chemical fumigation should be carried out immediately.

3. Prevent moisture regain. In spring, the climate gradually becomes warmer, and the ground begins to thaw and become damp. Seeds near the ground, walls, pillar bases, and other places easily absorb moisture and regain dampness, causing the seeds to heat up and become moldy. Generally, isolation measures should be taken: raise the seeds with wooden boards or other objects to about 50 cm, and the seeds should also be kept at a distance of more than 50 cm from walls, pillar bases, and so on, to prevent the seeds from absorbing moisture and regaining dampness. The seed moisture content should also be checked frequently. If problems are found, measures such as ventilation and air-drying should be taken.