20/20 Seed Labs Inc.

A germination test determines the maximum germination potential, or viability, of the seed.

Why do a Germination Test?

The germination rate of a particular seed lot is a key indicator as to how that seed will perform in the field.

Germination rate is expressed as a percentage: a 90% germination rate means 90 out of 100 seeds are likely to germinate under good growing conditions. This information is important for calculating optimal seeding rates, as well as helping to determine whether a particular seed lot has the potential to produce a good crop, or should be used at all.

How is a Germination Test Done?

All accredited seed testing laboratories in Canada use germination test methods prescribed in the Methods and Procedures manual published by CFIA.

The testing methods used in a laboratory are controlled so that the tests can be repeated, either within the laboratory or between laboratories. Conditions such as oxygen, light, moisture and temperature have been standardized for every crop type to ensure that germination will take place within a specific period of time.

The seeds for planting (testing) are taken at random then evenly spaced on a blotter so that they are not in contact with adjacent seeds.

At 20/20 Seed Labs Inc., we ensure that all substrates, containers, and moistening agents are free from phytotoxic properties. Sand, soil and water are tested for impurities and in the case of water, the pH value is monitored as well.

At the end of the test period, seedlings are evaluated and categorized as follows*:

• Normal. Seedlings that possess essential structures that are indicative of their ability to produce useful mature plants under favourable field conditions.
• Abnormal. Seedlings that exhibit some form of growth, but have insufficient plant structures to maintain a healthy plant, such as missing roots or shoots.
• Fresh Seeds. Seeds that have failed to germinate but have imbibed water. They appear firm, fresh and capable of germination, but remain dormant.
• Dormant Seeds. Viable seeds (other than hard seeds) that fail to germinate when given the prescribed or recommended germination conditions.
• Hard Seeds. Seeds that remain hard at the end of the prescribed test period, because their seed coats are impermeable to water.
• Dead Seeds. Seeds that cannot produce any part of a seedling.

Normal barley seedling on left with abnormals on right.  Normal oat seedling on top with abnormal seedlings below.

A diagnostic profile is also included with germination test results with further explanations of symptoms such as frost, chemical toxicity or injury, heating or mechanical damage, the presence of pathogens or dormancy.

How Do I Use Germination Test Results?

Less than stellar germination test results do not necessarily mean a seed lot needs to be discarded.

An experienced and knowledgeable seed analyst is vital in being able to recognize deficiencies with germination and reporting the results. They can also offer alternative methods and solutions to improve germination results, especially when there have been challenges with harvest conditions for the seed lot in question.

Significant improvements to the final germination can be achieved especially when dormancy or pathogens are present.

More Information: A germination test provides one aspect of seed quality and is most useful when used in conjunction with other seed quality tests. 20/20 Seed Labs offers a number of testing packages to help you find out exactly what you need to know about your seed. For more information, view our Testing Recommendations and Packages Technical Bulletin.

* Definitions have been adopted from CFIA, Methods and Procedures for Testing Seed, Definitions section 4.3.