Nowadays, seed quality and timing are two crucial factors for success in seed production. Seed companies are keen to explore the possibilities of steering their seed production in a way that optimizes economic yield. Therefore a large effort is put into the prediction and determination of optimal sprouting conditions and quality of independent seed lots. Predictable seed germination is a key to success but quite a challenge as it relies on varieties responding in a precisely predictable way.

	Typical output of SeedCalculator: germination curve and calculated parameters.

Seed germination is a complex process involving many different factors. In fact, each lot is characterized by its own unique quality parameters such as uniformity, germination rate and/or start of germination. These parameters are determined in different germination experiments and all the resulting data need to be combined and benchmarked before final conclusions can be drawn. Computer-based analysis of the germination experiments under different germination conditions can support this process in a reproducible way and help the making of decisions about seed processing, storage and sales.

SeedCalculator® is a user-friendly computer program for combining results from germination experiments and the determination of seed quality. The program has been developed especially for seed companies and is based on the mathematical comparison with three variables to fit the cumulative germination data between T=0 and maximal germination. Cumulative germination data and seedling scores are presented in the form of a spreadsheet. Germination parameters and seedling scores, including standard error, can be quickly calculated, then viewed either graphically or in table format. The complete test can be stored and printed, including details on which germination protocol was used. Different tests can be compared using student’s t-Test.

Users only have to score the amount of seeds that have germinated and the time at which the scoring was done. The software performs the fit that describes the germination curve and the germination parameters are calculated and presented. Technicians do not need to be skilled in statistical analyses for these tests. The calculations are standardized which makes it easy to compare germination test from different testing sites or times. Also, it is possible to predict germination under different temperatures and soil moisture contents.

Brochure in PDF format

If you are interested in analyzing and computerizing your germination data, just try SeedCalculator® for free. A demo-version can be downloaded at: www.pri.wur.nl/UK/products/Software/SeedCalculator/

There you can also find additional information about the statistical analysis, further features, options and parameters.

For more information:

Plant Research International BV Sales and Licences Section P.O. Box 16 6700 AA Wageningen The Netherlands e-mail: sales.pri@wur.nl Tel.: +31 317 486001 Fax: +31 317 418094

Brochure in PDF format: http://documents.plant.wur.nl/pri/seedcalculator/seedcalculator_EN.pdf