As breeders and seed producers seed handling is a key aspect of our quality assurance process. It’s best to take advice from the experts so we’re sharing Purdue Ag and ASTA’s guidance on seed handling to help you understand how to ensure you have the highest quality seed at planting time.
The best way to maintain quality and germ starts with good harvest and processing (drying, cleaning, and conditioning) contribute the most to maintaining high seed quality. The key step here for seed quality is adequate drying to maintain germination and viability, Purdue Ag recommends that “a moisture content of 8-9% is desirable for storage.” Seeds stored at higher humidity degrade more rapidly than seed stored at the recommended moisture.
ASTA offers these BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR HEMP SEED PRODUCTION which lays out these key steps in seed handling:
1. Seed Storage: If stored properly, hemp seed can maintain high viability. Proper storage slows the decline of germination rates. Seed should always be kept in breathable bags in a cool, dry, rodent-proof facility.
2. Testing: Pursuant to the Federal Seed Act, all seed sold must be tested for germination and purity, by and AOSA certified seed laboratory. A copy of the test results and sample of the seed should be maintained by the company.
One and done does not apply to seed storage! Test your seed moisture and germ regularly to ensure storage conditions are adequate to maintain quality.
