Seed Production of Vegetable, Tuber and Spice Crops (2+1)

Definition-Seed testing

• Seed testing is the cornerstone of all other seed technologies.
  
• It is the means by which we measure the viability and all the physical factors that regulate the use and maintenance of seeds. Everything that is done with seeds should have some test information to guide the work and ensure high quality.
  
• Seed tests tell if a crop of seeds is worth collecting, if handling procedures are correct, and how many potential seedlings are available for regeneration.
  
• Seed testing is the science of evaluating the planting value of seed.
  
• Seed quality in India is legally controlled by the Seed Act, 1966.
  
• The seed Act is enforced by Govt. of India through the Central Ministry of Agriculture and Co-operation and State Department of Agriculture. According to this Act all the seeds of notified varieties / kinds when sold to farmers must meet the minimum standard of germination, genetic purity and physical purity.
  
• The seed should be packed in a suitable container and a label has to be affixed on the container. Information about germination, physical purity, variety, date of test and name of the seed producer has to be given on the label.
  
• The germination as given on the label is valid for 9 months and after which it has to be revalidated.