Effects of Agronomic Factors, Physiological Factors, Seed Supply Systems and Seed Marketing Systems on Sustainability of Crop and Quality Seed Production: A Review

Abstract

Seed can be defined in the agronomic sense which includes any type of planting material intended for use in producing a crop, i.e. either generative or vegetative. It is basic agricultural input and a means for delivering technology to farmers. Main factors which contribute effects on crop and quality seed production are agronomic factors, physiological factors, seed supply systems and seed marketing systems. Performing good agronomic practices help to assure sustainable crop as well as quality seed production. Most researchers or literatures grouped agronomic factors as land requirements and preparation, isolation (seed), nutrition, weed control, roguing (seed) and hybrid seed production. Physiological factors also able to determine sustainable crop and quality seed production which can be grouped as variety maintenance and early generation seed multiplication, physiological nature of improved seed, and physiological quality of seed. Seed supply systems play a crucial role in providing farmers with access to adaptable crops and varieties, and the flexibility of obtaining seed when required. Sub factors categorized under this main factor are sources of new seed varieties, potential of policies, seed system efficiency, seed systems gaps and identifying potential areas of activities on seed system gaps. The forth factor seed marketing systems also have great effects on production of diversified crops and quality seeds. Generally for better sustainability of crops as well as quality seed production agronomic, physiologic, seed supply systems and seed marketing systems factors should be considered and supported by scientifically studies. Keywords : Seed, Agronomic, Physiologic, Supply, Marketing, Sustainability, Quality DOI: 10.7176/ALST/80-02 Publication date: April 30 th 2020