A four-replicate completely randomized experiment evaluated fungicides for marigold seed pelleting. Mancozeb at 0.4 g active ingredient and fosetyl-aluminium at 0.1 g were selected as suitable treatments. Mancozeb at 0.4 g improved germination, vigor and seedling growth, and maintained laboratory germination and greenhouse viability after two months under controlled and ambient storage while suppressing Pythium.
Key findings
- Mancozeb at 0.4 g a.i. performed best for germination and vigor. • Seed quality was maintained after two months under two storage conditions. • Pelleting addressed handling and Pythium suppression together.
Why this matters globally
The method may improve commercial establishment of small seeds, but fungicide use must follow regulation and environmental-safety requirements.
Thai researcher contribution
Maejo University develops seed and disease-management techniques for commercial floriculture.
Limitations to consider
Follow-up was two months with one crop-pathogen system; residue, beneficial-microbe and multi-site field effects were not reported.