Seed quality
Concept of seed quality:
It is
the degree of excellence in regard to the characteristics refer to above that determines
the seed quality. If the seed lots posses high genetic purity and high germination
percentage and a minimum of inert, weed and other crop seeds and are free from diseases.,
it is said to have high quality .Generally the standards fixed for certified seeds are
considered quality standards. It implies that a if a seed lot meets the certification
standard, it is good quality seed and if does not meet the certification standards, it is
obviously of a lower seed quality.
Seed quality characteristics:
Improved
variety: The variety must be truly superior than existing ones. It must be the latest and
the best variety suited to the area in regard to production potential and other desirable
characteristics.
Genetic
purity: genetic purity of seeds refers to the trueness to type. The genetic purity has
direct effect on ultimate yields
Physical
purity: Physical purity of a seed lot refers to the physical composition of seed lots..
Pure seed considered together with seed germination determine the planting value of the
seed.
Seed
germination and vigour: Seed germination refers to the ability of a seed when planted
under normal sowing conditions to give to a normal seedling. The seed vigour refers to the
sum total of all the attributes that give effective plant stand in the field.
. Both
of these have profound effect upon the ultimate yields and also determines the planting
value of the seed.
Planting
value: Planting value is the real worth of a seed lot for raising the crop.
Pure
seed % Germination %
Pure
live seed = -------------- X ------------------- X 100
Seed
health: The health of seeds refers to the presence or absence of disease organisms/ insect
pests on seeds. The quality of the seed lot very much depends on its health.
Seed
moisture: The seed moisture is the most critical factor in the maintenance of seed
germination and viability during storage. The seed must be dried to safe moisture content. |