The role of seed testing

An account is given of the place of seed testing in New Zealand agriculture. The functions of the Government Seed Testing Station are outlined, including sections on the role of testing in the Government seed certification scheme, testing seed for export, seed importation. noxious plants, Rhizobium testing, surveys and research. Also discussed are the procedures and aspects of seed quality testing relevant to New Zealand pasture seeds, including sampling, purity, germination, seed health. seed vigour, cultivar and tolerances. Key words: Seed testing, New Zealand, noxious plants, Rhizobium.