South Perth, Western Australia
March 27, 2013
AGWEST Plant Laboratories seed analysts Carolyn Dark (left) and Marilyn Colemon discuss Normal and Abnormal wheat seedlings from a germination test.
Growers have been reminded that time is running out to submit seed samples to AGWEST Plant Laboratories for testing prior to sowing.
Department of Agriculture and Food senior technical officer Marcia Vistisen said its laboratories had already received several samples this season with mixed germination results for a number of species.
“Growers should not risk this season’s crop with potentially underperforming seed,” Ms Vistisen said.
“Lower than average growing season rains and late rains during harvest have impacted on the quality of seed retained for this season’s crop.
“For instance, narrowleaf lupin samples tested in the laboratory to date have had germination results ranging from high 90 per cent to lower than 70 per cent,” she said.
“Varied germination results also have been seen in canola samples and we have noted concerning germination results in some samples, especially stored seed from previous years.”
Ms Vistisen said it made good economic sense to get seed tested.
“For a small cost of between $72-93, dependant on species, growers can have an assurance about the seed they plan to use,” she said.
“The results from germination tests will enable growers to make informed decisions prior to seeding and remove the risk of poor establishment.”
Ms Vistisen said germination tests for most species took between seven and 14 days.
“So with seeding looming fast, there is no time for delay,” she said.
AGWEST Plant Laboratories also offers a wide range of other tests, including canola vigour, purity, 1000 seed weight, CMV, anthracnose, checks for weed seed numbers, other seed health tests and many other tests.
Seed sampling kits are available from all regional department offices. Submission forms also can be downloaded from agric.wa.gov.au/agwestplantlabs or ring AGWEST Plant Laboratories on 9368 3721 for more information.
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