Small grain testing a must for producers

Producers are reminded that testing small grains seed for germination is a must, especially if you are holding seed back from last year. Sprout and germination of a seed from last fall’s moisture will affect the seed's ability to germinate this year.

Producers can count out a representative 100 seeds and place them on a wet paper towel on a cookie sheet. Place the seeds on the cookie sheet in rows evenly spaced. Cover with plastic wrap and place the cookie sheet in a window where the sun shines. In ten days you should be able to see which seeds are germinating. Kent McVay, MSU Croppinsg Systems Specialist has a quick and easy test that is complete in 72 hours. Take 100 (or 200) seeds and place them in a drinking glass. Add 3 parts water and 1 part hydrogen peroxide (available at your local pharmacy) to the glass to cover the seeds so they are swimming. Let this sit on the counter top for 72 hours. After that, drain through a strainer and count the number of seeds that have germinated. The germination percentage is just the number with visible roots divided by the total number placed in the glass. The peroxide provides oxygen so as to mimic what is available in a soil seedbed. Results will be similar to that of the paper towel test.

If you want to send a seed lot in for testing at MSU seed lab, you need to provide a representative sample of the grain in a gallon zip lock bag. The Extension office can help you prepare your sample and you can then mail it to MSU. At MSU testing for germination is $15 and testing for purity is $23 for small grains. Peas are $20 for germination and $23 for purity.

If you are purchasing seed, make sure you receive germination and purity test as part of the purchase. Plant population should be targeted for 750,000 for dryland and 1.5 million for irrigation. If you have further questions, contact the Extension Office at 654-2543.