Seed Testing Laboratory

Seed Testing in South Dakota

A public seed testing laboratory is maintained by SDSU to test samples for farmers, seedsmen, SD Crop Improvement Association and the SD Department of Agriculture.  The lab is equipped with modern testing equipment necessary to perform tests on all kinds of agricultural crops, vegetables, trees, and flower seed.  It is staffed with experienced, technically trained analysts and part-time assistants who work under constant supervision.  All analyses performed by the lab are made according to the Rules for Testing Seeds published by the Association of Official Seed  Analysts (AOSA).   The report issued by the lab is an official test of the sample submitted.

Obtaining a sample

To take a representative sample, obtain 5-7 sub-samples from several areas of the bin using a seed probe.  Mix the probed samples and divide them down to the amount needed for testing.  DO NOT sample just the top one foot of your bin.  If the seed is in bags, sample 5 bags plus 10% of the total number of bags in the seed lot (i.e. 50 bags; sample 10 bags) and divide sample down to desired weight.

SIZE OF SAMPLE FOR TESTING

PLEASE NOTE:
---Samples for Seed certification should be double this size.
--- Treated seed must be clearly labeled and treatment must be indicated.

For more information see the Seed Testing Laboratory Home Page

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Web page last modified on April 01, 2003 by Kay Ruden.