Australian Seed Labs offers a wide range of seed analysis tests on a variety of herbage, forage, vegetable, flower and native seed species. All analytical activities are completed in accordance to the ISTA Rules.
ASL is accredited to issue Blue and Orange International Certificates (BIC/OIC) for the following tests:
- Purity and seed identification
- Germination
- Seed viability
- Moisture content determination
- Weight determination
Please contact the laboratory for the full scope of our accreditation.
ASL is also accredited to train official ISTA seed samplers. The seed sampling course is available to all who wish to sample seed lines for international certification. We can train you onsite or travel to your location to train your staff.
ASL provides a seed sampling service for seed lots requiring official sampling for export (i.e. Western Australia, international).
Purity
Purity analysis identifies the percentage of pure seed present in a sample, and allows for the identification of any weed seeds and contaminants present in the seed line.
Germination
A Germination test provides an estimate of the germination potential of a seed lot . Seed is grown in it’s most optimum conditions on germination substrate before being analysed by ASL staff.
Tetrazolium
A Tetrazolium (TZ) test is a viability test that involves analysing the embryo of the seed. The seed is soaked to soften the seed coat before being cut and placed in a TZ solution for a set period of time. The solution is then rinsed off and the seed embryos assessed. This test is beneficial for seed lines that may contain fresh seed or if you are requiring a quick result to make decisions on your seed.
Weed Seed Search
A Weed Seed Search (otherwise known as Other Seed Determination), is a test that determines if any weed seed or soil contaminants are present in a sample. This test is required for export to Western Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania, and can be completed on a variety of different seed species.
ASL can also complete weed seed searches for international export (i.e. India, Pakistan).
Moisture Content Determination
- HE50 Moisture
- Oven Moisture
Vigour Testing
ASL offers a range of vigour tests, including: emergence in soil, cold test and accelerated ageing.
Emergence in soil:
Cold test:
This test provides an indication on how well the seed will perform when placed under cold stress. The seed is placed at 10°C for seven days before being transferred to a warmer temperature (usually 20-30°C).
Accelerated ageing:
This test provides an indication on what may happen to the germination potential of a seed when it is stored for a period of time. The seed is exposed to conditions of high humidity and temperature for a short period of time, before being placed for germination as per laboratory protocol. These results are compared to a control germination to determine how the seed will tolerate long storage conditions.
Other seed tests can be made upon request (including seed identification and seed count). ASL has an array of germination cabinets available to do testing at specific temperatures outside the normal ranges.
The laboratory also has the capabilities to complete storage trial analysis testing. Please contact the laboratory to discuss how ASL’s testing procedures can aid in your research trials.