What is one benefit of using seed treatments?

Using seed treatments primarily enhances pest resistance and promotes healthier plants, which is a crucial benefit in agricultural practices. Seed treatments are designed to apply protective chemicals or biological agents directly to the seed before planting. This application can defend the young plant from specific pests and diseases that might otherwise affect germination and early growth stages.

By providing this early protection, treated seeds often experience improved vigor and growth, leading to healthier plants overall. These healthy plants are better equipped to withstand environmental stresses, compete with weeds, and ultimately yield more at harvest time. This aspect of seed treatment not only aids in establishing a strong crop but can also contribute to reduced reliance on additional pesticide applications later in the growing season, supporting more sustainable farming practices.

While the other choices mention various potential benefits, they do not accurately capture the primary and most direct outcome of seed treatments. For example, while reducing the need for water and minimizing fertilizers could be indirect benefits in some scenarios, they are not the main focus of seed treatments. Similarly, increasing resale value is not a feature typically associated with the direct effects of seed treatments on plant health and pest resistance.