Germination Tests
Before seed is distributed or planted it is essential to have it tested for germination if
this is possible (time and facilities available, cost etc.). Testing is normally done by the
seed supplier and/or governmental seed authority, in which case a written and dated
certificate should be obtained as a matter of priority.
Independent, unbiased germination tests are particularly important if, for any reason:
- the seed supplier tested the seed some long time previously,
- the seed supplier’s test is not considered to be reliable,
- the seed has been stored in hot and/or humid conditions,
- the seed has been treated (dressed) after the test, or
- the seed has been transported a long distance or has been handled roughly.
Poor Germination Test Results
With larger quantities of seed, if the test result is poor, say less than about 80% for most
crops, the seed should not be written off as there are some steps to take, such as:
- refer to the seed purchase contract, and take appropriate measures with the relevant
party—seed supplier, lawyer etc. Recourse to the law may be necessary (see
Section 3B. “Seed Purchase Procedures”, pages 310–312). - if appropriate, plant the seed as soon as possible—before or during the planting
season—unless the seed has a very low germination rate, in which case it may be
usable as food (unless it has been treated, of course).
Seed with a low percentage of germination with low vigour
usually produces weak seedlings and plants.Testing Seed for Germination
At least 400 seeds should be tested, divided into lots of 100. To make sure that a
representative sample is tested, small amounts of seed should be sampled from several
seed bags from all over the seed store, then mixed together and the test sample removed.
In practice, and if at all possible, it is a good idea to have the seed tested by
professionals. If possible, find a local agricultural college, university, independent seed
supplier or government seed laboratory to test the seed for germination.
Informal germination testing can easily be done in a warm place at home or in the
office. Place the counted seed onto flat plates with absorbent, unbleached, white tissue.
Place more paper on top of the seed—use plenty of tissue so that the seed does not dry
out too quickly. Thoroughly moisten the paper with clean water, then cover the plate to
reduce evaporation. Continue to check the dampness of the seed/tissue, especially for
the first few days when the seed is inbibing (absorbing) large amounts of water.
Obviously, the larger the seed the more water is absorbed; twice daily inspections/top
ups are usually required for the first two or three days. Keep the seed warm at all times.