Seed is an important input into any pasture system and can represent a significant proportion of sowing costs.

It is therefore important to purchase the best quality seed possible.

One of the best ways to ensure this is by buying on the basis of a seed analysis report.

Most seed traded commercially is done on the basis of the seed analysis, readily available at the point of purchase from any reputable merchant.

However, many producers do not seek this report when buying seed and, at times, find it a bit of a mystery.

Some key things to look for are:

• The Pure Seed percentage - this is the percentage of seed that is of the nominated species, for example, lucerne. Anything that is not pure is either inert matter or seed of another species. This is the cue to check the analysis for the presence of any undesirable weed seeds. This does not confirm that the seed is the correct variety, just the correct species.
• Germination percentage - seed is a living entity and germination will decline over time. Poor storage conditions will rapidly reduce germination capacity. Germination is a critical consideration when purchasing seed and should be retested every 12 months. Sometimes a tetrazolium test is offered along with a germination test. This can only confirm if a seed is viable, it cannot distinguish between dormant or germinable seed. This is an important distinction for native grasses which often have a high level of dormancy.
• Varietal Purity - a seed analysis report does not confirm the varietal purity of the seed. Variety purity can only be confirmed through a quality seed production system. Buying seed that has been produced under a sound quality assurance or seed certification scheme is the only effective means of ensuring the seed is the correct variety.

See the NSW DPI website, Seeds and plant breeding.