Chemical Substances in Crop Production

Abstract

A lot of chemical substances are used during the process of crop production, starts from soil preparation, seed or planting stock preparation, planting and care, until harvesting and post harvesting management. These chemical substances are used for various objectives. Some chemical substances are necessary because they cannot be replaced by other methods. High quantity and quality of produces are still needed by markets and consumers. During soil preparation, chemical substances are used to adjust soil chemical property. Seeds and planting stocks are treated with chemical substances to get rid of seed-borne diseases and insect pests as well as to break seed dormancy. During plant growth, chemical substances are applied for pest control and plant growth regulation, for example, root growth stimulation, increasing in number of flowers, sex determination in plant, increasing in quantity and size of fruits, prevention of fruit drop, extension of the inflorescences, delay flowering, increase resistance to unsuitable environments and plant growth retardants. Some chemical substances are used to prolong harvest, to delay ripening and to extend storage time so the produces are still in good condition. Therefore, the use of chemical substances during crop production should be aware of the objective usage, right concentration and right time for the sake of farmers, consumers and environment.