(Solved): 3 (a) Seed pathology is an important component of the seed quality management process. Discuss the i ...

3 (a) Seed pathology is an important component of the seed quality management process. Discuss the importance of seed-borne diseases and how they affect the productivity and profitability of crop production operations (10 marks) (b) Outline the factors to be taken into account when deciding on the type of seed storage container to use (10 marks) 4. Agricultural experts at Maize Genetics Inc. are investigating factors affecting hybrid maize seed production. They conducted a field experiment to evaluate the impact of different planting densities on seed yield and quality of a hybrid maize variety, 'Golden Harvest'. The study was conducted over a growing season, and three planting densities were tested: Low Density: 20,000 plants per hectare Medium Density: 30,000 plants per hectare High Density: 40,000 plants per hectare The researchers measured various parameters related to seed production, including seed yield per hectare, seed size, germination rate, and vigor. Initial Results: Seed Yield: Low Density - 8 tons/ha, Medium Density - 10 tons/ha, High Density - 9.5 tons/ha. Seed Size: Low Density - 10 grams/ 100 seeds, Medium Density - 9 grams/ 100 seeds, High Density -8 grams

seeds. Germination Rate: Low Density - 92%, Medium Density - 90%, High Density -

. Vigor: Low Density - Good, Medium Density - Moderate, High Density - Poor. Questions: (a) How do the different planting densities influence seed yield, size, germination rate, and seed vigor? (3 marks) (b) Discuss the implications of the observed differences in seed yield and quality am three planting densities for commercial maize seed production (5 marks) (c) Identify potential factors contributing to the differences in seed yield and quality planting densities (5 marks) (d) Considering the trade-offs between seed yield, size, and quality, which planting density would you recommend for maximizing hybrid maize seed production? Justify your recommendation. (4 marks) (e) Outline potential strategies to mitigate the negative effects of high planting density on seed vigor while maintaining high seed yield. (3 marks) 5. (a) Discuss the importance of variety registration and highlight the consequences of reduced vigilance in the variety registration requirements ( 10 marks) (b) Explain how genetic quality of seed is ensured during seed multiplication and processing (10 marks)