Abstract: A pregerminated rice seed comprising a plant growth regulator, optionally further comprising a phytoprotection product, especially an insecticide.

Abstract: A method for preparing rice seed for sowing whereby the seed is pregerminated and thereafter treated with a plant growth regulator and, optionally, a phytoprotection product such as an insecticide.

Abstract: A seed treating apparatus includes a housing having at least three, vertically spaced alternating converging and diverging conical members therein and a plurality of sprayer units arranged to coat the seed flowing through the housing with liquid seed treating agent. A first, converging upper conical member guides the seed into an upper, open end of the housing. A second diverging conical member is located below the first conical member and can be vertically moved to adjust the rate at which the seed leaves the first conical member. A first set of spraying units is arranged about the inner periphery of the housing and is preferably aimed toward the second conical member for spraying the seed as it flows towards and over the second conical member. The seed then is caused to flow toward a third converging conical member which guides the seed to a lower open end of the housing. A second set of spraying units is provided between the second and third conical members for additional spraying of the seed.