Phytotoxicity in soybean seeds treated with phytosanitary products at different application times

Abstract

Due to increased use of treated seeds, studies are necessary in relation to the effects of the treatments and their possible consequences on seed quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate phytotoxicity according to when phytosanitary products are applied on soybean seeds and their effect on seed physiological quality and field performance. A completely randomized experimental design was used in a 9 × 2 factorial arrangement involving 9 seed treatments (fungicides and insecticides) and two application times (60 days before sowing and at the time of sowing in the field). Moisture content was determined and tests were performed to ascertain physiological quality (germination and germination under water restriction). Root and hypocotyl length, seedling length, and vigor and uniformity indices were evaluated with the assistance of Vigor-S®. In the field, the following determinations were made: plant height at 30 and 60 days after emergence, first pod height, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, and yield. Early seed treatment in the soybean crop can affect initial development of the plants, but it does not affect yield. The phytotoxicity caused by the soybean seed treatment was observed in the root length characteristic.