The implication of seed treatment of winter oilseed rape

Abstract

Small plot trials studying the impact of different seed treatments on the occurrence of pests and diseases in autumn were carried out during 2000–2003. The aim was to verify the efficiency of different fungicidal and insecticidal oilseed rape seed treatments and to determine the economical effectiveness of this method of protection. The following insecticidal seed treatments were used: Promet 400 CS (furathiocarb), Cosmos 500 FS (fipronil), Chinook 200 FS (imidacloprid & beta-cyfluthrin) and Marshal ST (carbosulfan). The seed treatment Chinook 200 FS in combination with newly developed fungicidal compound was also assessed. The most effective treatment was Chinook 200 FS (imidacloprid & beta-cyfluthrin), particularly against flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.), and lower infestations by larvae of the turnip gall weevil (Ceutorhynchus pleurostigma Marsh.) were also found. However, the efficiency lasts no more than 4–5 weeks after sowing. The use of common insecticidal treatments in cases of necessity was found to be beneficial. Plant density in autumn and in spring was greatest in the Chinook 200 FS treatment and in some years a positive influence on yield was also observed with this treatment.