Sampling and Testing Seed

Summary

This video explains the critical role of high-quality seed in crop establishment, focusing on germination and purity as key indicators of seed quality. It emphasizes the importance of proper sampling and testing to ensure accurate results, detailing procedures for collecting representative samples based on seed type. The script outlines how seed samples are analyzed for purity and germination in an AOSA-approved lab, and how this information helps farmers make informed decisions. Additionally, it highlights safety considerations during the sampling process and the overall value of seed testing for ensuring successful crop yields.

Takeaways

• 😀 High-quality seed is essential for successful crop establishment and good stand development.
• 😀 Germination percentage is a key factor in determining seed quality, as it indicates how many seeds are expected to sprout and grow.
• 😀 Seed purity plays a significant role in crop establishment, ensuring minimal inert matter, weed seeds, and other crop seeds.
• 😀 Sampling and testing are critical for verifying seed quality, whether for personal planting or packaging and selling.
• 😀 The seed packaging method varies by seed type and location, with common packaging methods including bags, mini bulk bags, and bulk bins.
• 😀 A proper seed sample should be representative of the entire lot, following guidelines for the number of bags and probes to sample.
• 😀 For lots of six bags or less, each bag should be sampled, with at least five trier fulls taken. For larger lots, five bags should be sampled plus 10% of the total bags.
• 😀 The amount of seed required for testing depends on the seed size and the type of test, ranging from 2 ounces for small seeds to 2.5 pounds for larger seeds.
• 😀 Different triers are used for different seed types, with flowable seeds requiring smaller triers and rougher or chaffy seeds requiring larger or specialized triers.
• 😀 When sampling, always check that the bags contain the same seed kind and lot to prevent mixing, and take care to avoid damage to the seeds during sampling.
• 😀 Samples should be sent to an AOSA-approved laboratory for testing, where they undergo purity and germination evaluations to ensure the accuracy of seed lot labeling.

Q & A

Why is starting with high-quality seed crucial for crop establishment?

Starting with high-quality seed is essential because it significantly impacts the crop establishment process. High-quality seed typically has a high germination percentage, leading to a good stand establishment and ultimately better yields.

What are the main factors that determine seed quality?

The two primary factors that determine seed quality are germination percentage and purity of the seed lot. Germination refers to the ability of seeds to sprout and grow, while purity involves the types of seeds and inert matter present in a seed lot.

What does 'purity' of a seed lot refer to?

Purity refers to the composition of the seed lot, specifically the presence of seeds from other plants, weed seeds, and inert materials. A high purity percentage means the seed lot contains mostly the intended crop seeds, which improves crop establishment and yield.

How does sampling and testing help ensure seed quality?

Sampling and testing are essential for verifying seed quality. By following proper sampling methods and submitting representative samples to a lab, the seed's germination percentage and purity can be accurately assessed, ensuring the seed lot meets the required standards.

What is the standard formula for determining how much seed to sample?

The standard rule for determining the sample size is to sample five bags plus 10% of the total number of bags in the lot. For smaller lots of six bags or less, each bag is sampled, and a minimum of five trier fulls is required.

How do you take a sample from a large lot of seed?

For a larger lot, say 36 bags, you should sample five bags plus 10% of the total number of bags (in this case, four more bags), ensuring a representative sample. The triers should be evenly spaced and taken from unopened bags, following the guidelines to avoid bias.

Why is it important to sample different paths in each bag?

Sampling different paths in each bag ensures that the sample is representative of the entire lot, avoiding bias from seed distribution. This helps to get a more accurate sample for testing.

What should you do if you are sampling a seed lot with very small seeds?

For small seeds like bent grass or bluegrass, a 30-inch trier with a half-inch diameter or a double-tube sleeve type trier is ideal. These tools help collect a representative sample without damaging the seed.

How is seed tested for germination in the lab?

In the germination lab, seeds are planted under controlled conditions, including temperature and light. They are then monitored for sprouting and seedling development. The final count determines the germination percentage, which indicates the quality of the seed lot.

What safety precautions should be taken during seed sampling?

During seed sampling, it is important to be aware of potential hazards, such as moving equipment, low-clearance areas, and exposure to treated seed. Safety gear like bump hats, steel-toed shoes, and latex gloves may be necessary to ensure protection.