Seed Quality Evaluation Methods

Seed quality evaluation methods will be discussed during a tour of the I.S.U. Seed Testing Laboratory. The following discussion of seed quality is provided as background or reference information. The importance of quality seed stocks is often taken for granted in U.S. agriculture. High quality seed supplies of the major crops have evolved through the competitive nature of the U.S. seed industry. However, occasionally an emergence, contamination, or seed quality question arises. To help answer these seed quality questions it is useful to understand seed evaluation methods and labeling requirements

Winter Wheat Seed Size and Plantic Depth

Because of the drought, winter wheat growers need to be especially watchful of the seed they plant this fall. Seed size influences seedling emergence, vigor, and ultimately yield potential. Varieties differ in average seed size. Within a variety, planting larger sized seed usually results in higher yields. But most seed wheat kernels are small this year