Introduction

Materials and
Methods

Results and
Discussion

References

Conclusions

Project
Background

Agronomic Response of Hard Red Spring Wheat with ACA Seed Application

LeRoy A. Spilde, Associate Professor
Department of Plant Sciences
North Dakota State University


Abstract
Numerous chemicals are applied on seed to retain the viability or enhance seed vigor. Agricultural Crop Additive (ACA) is zinc ammonium acetate that has been shown to increase grain yield of corn (Zea mays L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and other crops when applied to soil. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of ACA when applied on seed by evaluation of seedling and plant performance under laboratory and field conditions. ACA was applied to hard red spring wheat seed (cv. 2375) at four rates in three years. Seed germination, seedling emergence and growth rate were evaluated in laboratory growth chambers. Field plots were planted at two eastern North Dakota locations to evaluate plant stand, grain yield and test weight. Germination percentage increased with 3.4 and 6.8 fl oz/bu applications of ACA. Seedling emergence and growth rate increased with ACA application under warm soil conditions. Emergence percentage was not improved with cold soil conditions, but seedling dry weight increased with 1.7 and 3.4 fl oz/bu ACA applications. Grain yield and test weight were increased with all rates of ACA treatment. Net return was greatest with a 1.7 fl oz/bu application rate. Future research is needed to delineate appropriate ACA application levels with other cultivars, crops and environmental conditions. Potential fungicidal effect of ACA also should be investigated. This article is only available online at http://www.ag.ndsu.nodak.edu/ndagres/ndagres.htm

Impact — Results of this study can be used when projecting the consequences of applying ACA to wheat seed for commercial grain production under environmental conditions similar to North Dakota.
Audience — Wheat producers, chemical and sales representatives, agronomists, lending institutions.

Keywords
germination, yield, vigor, additives, intensive management

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