Steps to Purchasing Seed
An important step in purchasing seed is knowing exactly what you’re buying. Whether you’re interested in common, Certified or Quality Assured seed you should know what is on the label before you commit to it. Anytime you finalize purchasing decisions, we encourage you to ask your seed supplier(s) to provide you with seed test information prior to solidifying your order. This simple request puts you in the driver seat of producing a quality crop for the year.
Once you’ve received a test, knowing what to look for is equally important as making the request for it. The first thing to do is look at the “Date Completed” to make sure it has not expired. The expiration date will vary by state and can be determined by contacting your state seed department or other Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA). Next, check the germination and total viable seed percentages. Certified seed will have certain germination requirements by crop but it is good to have a standard for your own self as well. For example, if the minimum standard for Certified field pea seed is 85% but you prefer to only use 90%+ you might want to search for a seed lot that meets your standards. Next, check the purity and always ask your seed supplier for the All States (US) Noxious Weed test. Make sure the seed is free of noxious weed seeds and other contaminants.
The production of common, Certified and Quality Assured seed will vary in how they are managed and overseen by the supplier. However, when it comes to quality you should make no sacrifices. Common seed is regulated the least while certified and quality assured have intense regulations and restrictions set forth by state seed departments and AOSCA standards. The requirements of Quality Assured seed will vary depending on the seed lab and/or supplier and Certified seed will be regulated by both the seed lab and the supplier.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions to your seed suppliers and request this information. You wouldn’t purchase a piece of equipment without knowing what comes with it, how it performs, etc. and your seed buying shouldn’t be any different. If you ever have questions about the quality of seed you’re looking at, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
