Natural Seed Systems and Seed Treatment in Natural Farming
Seeds are the foundation of any crop. In natural farming, the choice of seeds and their treatment before sowing can determine the success of your entire season. This guide covers what seeds to choose and how to prepare them naturally.
Suitable Seeds for Natural Farming
What to Choose
Traditional Cultivars (Landraces)
Varieties developed over generations by farmers, adapted to local conditions and naturally resistant to local pests and diseases.
Open-Pollinated (OP) Varieties
Seeds that can be saved and replanted, maintaining their characteristics across generations.
Heirloom Seeds
Non-hybrid varieties passed down through generations, often with cultural significance.
What to Avoid
Hybrid Seeds
While they may offer high yields, hybrids:
- Cannot be saved for replanting (they segregate in the next generation)
- Often require more inputs to perform well
- Create dependency on seed companies
GMO Seeds
Genetically modified seeds are not permitted in natural farming due to biosafety concerns and their association with chemical-dependent agriculture.
Why Traditional Cultivars Excel
Traditional varieties are well-suited for natural farming because:
- They're adapted to local climate, soil, and water conditions
- They've developed natural resistance to local pests and diseases
- They require fewer inputs to produce reasonable yields
- They often have better nutritional profiles
- They contribute to preserving agricultural biodiversity
- They have cultural significance and traditional knowledge associated with them
Where to Source Seeds
Formal Sources
- State Agricultural Universities
- ICAR research stations
- NBPGR (National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources)
- International institutions (ICRISAT, IRRI)
Informal Sources
- Custodian farmers: Traditional farmers who maintain local varieties
- Community seed banks: Local institutions preserving seed diversity
- NGOs: MSSRF, WASSAN, SAMBHAV, and others working on seed conservation
- Seed networks: Farmer groups exchanging traditional seeds
Seed Production Principles
If you want to produce your own seeds:
- Site selection: Same climatic area as the variety was developed for
- Avoid contamination: Plot should be free from volunteer plants and weeds
- Isolation: Maintain distance from other varieties to prevent cross-pollination
- Rouging: Remove off-type and diseased plants during growth
- Harvest at right moisture: Check crop morphology for harvest timing
- Processing: Remove impurities, half-filled seeds, ensure purity
Community Seed Banks
Seed banks play vital roles in natural farming:
- Preserve indigenous and traditional varieties
- Conserve agricultural biodiversity
- Facilitate seed exchange between farmers
- Document traditional knowledge
- Provide climate-resilient seed options
- Maintain seeds free from patents and restrictions
Beejamrit Seed Treatment
The primary seed treatment in natural farming protects seeds from fungal and bacterial diseases while promoting germination.
Ingredients
- 5 kg fresh cow dung
- 5 liters cow urine
- 50 grams lime
- One handful of farm soil
- 20 liters water
Preparation
- Mix cow dung thoroughly in water
- Add cow urine and mix well
- Dissolve lime separately, then add
- Add handful of farm soil
- Cover and ferment overnight
Application
- Small seeds: Dip 30 minutes, dry in shade
- Large seeds: Coat thoroughly, dry 1-2 hours
- Tubers/rhizomes: Dip 5-10 minutes
Other Natural Seed Treatments
Hot Water Treatment
Immerse seeds in water at 53°C for 20-30 minutes. Controls seed-borne diseases.
Asafoetida Treatment
250 grams asafoetida in 1 liter water for 10 kg seeds. Has antifungal properties.
Turmeric Treatment
Turmeric rhizome powder mixed with cow urine. Protects against fungal diseases.
Panchagavya Soak
Soaking seeds briefly in diluted Panchagavya can enhance germination.
Benefits of Proper Seed Treatment
- Higher germination rates
- Protection from early-stage diseases
- Stronger, more vigorous seedlings
- Better establishment in field
- Reduced need for later interventions
Getting Started
- Identify local seed sources: Find custodian farmers or community seed banks
- Start with familiar crops: Choose varieties you or your neighbors have grown
- Learn Beejamrit: Master this essential treatment
- Save seeds: Begin saving seeds from your best plants
- Join seed networks: Connect with other farmers conserving traditional varieties
The seed is where farming begins. By choosing appropriate varieties and treating them naturally, you set your crops up for success from the very first day.
