March is here, and for those of us in the seed industry we call it “Good Seed Month.” This is when the final checks are made before planting season kicks off. The seeds that have been tested, analyzed, and cleared for quality are the ones that will soon be sown into the ground, and now’s the time to ensure they’re in optimal condition for the growing season ahead.
If you’ve been in the seed business long enough, you know how important it is to rely on detailed, precise seed testing to ensure your crops thrive. But let’s dig into the specifics of what testing can be done in a lab like ours
The Seed Lab Tests You Need to Know About
Seed testing covers a variety of parameters that all impact the health and success of your crop. Here are the key tests we run at Seed Check:
- Germination Test: We check how many seeds will sprout under ideal conditions. This isn’t just a simple “yes or no” test—it’s about how quickly and consistently they germinate, which speaks to overall seed health.
- Vigour Test: This goes beyond germination. Vigor testing evaluates how quickly and strongly the seedling grows once it’s germinated. It gives an indication of how well the plants will perform under field conditions, like stress from drought or pests.
- Purity Test: We examine the seed sample for any contaminants—whether that’s other crop kinds or noxious weeds. This ensures the seed you’re planting is true to type and free from unwanted material.
- Seed Health Testing: Certain seeds may harbor pathogens that can spread in the field, causing disease in your crop. We test for a range of seed-borne pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, to prevent them from getting a foothold.
- 1000 Seed Weights: This measurement is so helpful in calibrating drills and figuring out desired plant populations.
As we roll into March, this is the critical period to run these tests and make final decisions on which seed lots are going into the ground. By identifying potential issues early, growers can make adjustments before planting, ensuring the highest chances of success.
Beyond March: Testing Year-Round for Consistency
While Spring is a great time for final checks, seed testing is an ongoing process. After all, seed quality can change over time, especially if seed lots are stored improperly or conditions change. Regular testing—whether it’s germination, purity, or vigour testing—ensures that every batch is up to standard before it’s used.
At Seed Check, we’re here to support you through this process. If you’re looking for reliable, high-quality seed testing, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make this planting season a success—one tested seed at a time.
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