Micro-climate characteristics and seedling qualities in seed-zone of post-paddy wheat field under different tillage and seeding modes

Objective  To evaluate the regional applicability of different tillage and seeding modes, provide a theoritical basis for cultivating in rice-wheat rotation area, optimizing sowing technique and designing related precision seeders, and guarantee high quality and yield of post-paddy wheat.

Method  A seed-zone micro-climate tester was applied to continuously monitor the micro-climate conditions, seed germination and seedling establishment under three seeding modes, including no-till mulching (NT1), no-till drill (NT2) and rotary-tilling broadcasting (CK).

Result  The field experiment showed that the seed-zone micro-climates under three seeding modes varied significantly. Seed-zone micro-climate under NT1 mode remained relatively stable. Large soil clods formed under CK mode, and led to a large change of micro-climate in seed-zone and made it difficult to conserve soil moisture. NT2 created the most stable seed-zone micro-climate, providing the most suitable temperature and humidity for seed germination. The germination rates under NT1, NT2 and CK modes were 58.39%, 71.81% and 61.80% respectively.

Conclusion  Different tillage and seeding modes significantly influence seed-zone micro-climate, seed germination and seedling establishment. The proposed seed-zone micro-climate tester is suitable for quickly and accurately evaluating the regional applicability of tillage and seeding modes for past-paddy wheat. Excellent tillage procedures, good seedbed environment and large contact area between seed and soil are the key factors of wheat growth.