CLASSES OF SEED

1. Nucleus seed: Nucleus seed: This is cent per cent genetic pure
seed with physical purity produced under the direct supervision
of the concerned plant breeder.
2. Breeder’s seed: This is the progeny of the nucleus seed
multiplied in large area under the supervision of plant breeder and
monitored by a committee. It provides cent per cent physical and
genetic pure seed for production of
foundation class. Golden yellow coloured certificate is issued for
this category by the producting agency.
3. Foundation seed: Progeny of breeder’s seed in handled by
recognized seed producing agencies in public and private sector
under the supervision of Seed Certification Agency in such a way
that its quality is maintained according tothe prescribed standard.
Seed Certification agency issues a white colour certification for
foundation class seed. Foundation seed is purchased by Seed
Corporation from seed growers. Foundation seed can again be
multiplied by Seed Corporation in the events of it s shortage with
similar seed certification standard.

4. Certified seed: Progeny of foundation seed produced by

registered seed growers under the supervision of Seed
Certification Agency by maintaining the seed quality as per
minimum seed certification standards. Seed Certification
Agency issues a bleu colour (Shade ISI No. 104, azure blue)
certificate.

5. Nucleus seed: is the handful of original seed obtained from

selected individual plants of a particular variety for
maintenance and purification by the originating breeder. It is
further multiplied and maintained under the supervision of
qualified plant breeder to provide breeder seed. This forms the
basis for all further seed production. It has the highest genetic
purity and physical purity.
Seed quality characters
: A good seed should have the following quality characters.
1. Improved variety: It should be superior to the existing variety i.e. the yield should be higher by
20-25% than the existing variety or it should have some desirable attributes like disease
resistance, drought resistance, salt tolerance etc., with good yield potential.
2. Genetic Purity: The seed should be true to type. The seed should possess all the genetic
qualities / characters, which the breeder has placed in the variety, genetic purity has direct effect
on the yields. If there is nay deterioration, there would be proportionate decrease in the yield or
performance.
3. Physical Purity: Physical purity of a seed lot refers to the physicalcomposition of the seed lots.
A seed lot is composed of pure seed, inert mater, broken seeds, undersized seeds, soil and dust
particles weed seeds, OCS etc.
Higher the content of pure seed better would be the seed quality. Pure seed together with
germination gives the planting value of the seed lot.
4. Seed germination and vigour: Seed germination refers to the ability of a seed when planted
under normal sowing conditions to give rise to a normal seedling. Seed vigour refers to the sum
total of all seed attributes that give effective plant stand in the field.
Higher germination percentage and vigour gives adequate plant population and uniform
growth, which have profound effect on, yield and determine the planting value of the seed.
5. Freedom from weeds and other crop seeds: This is an extension of physical purity described
earlier. There are certain weed species, which are very harmful to the crop and once established
they are difficult to eradicate. An absolute freedom from seed of such species is highly desirable
and is one ofthe important criteria for determining the planning quality of seeds.
6. Seed health: Seed health refers to the presence or absence of disease organisms or insect pests
on the seed. The quality of a seed lot depends on its health, hence the seed should be free from
seed borne disease and insect pests.
7. Seed moisture: The seed moisture is the most important factor in determining the seed
germination and viability during storage. At high seed moisture content there is high incidence
of pest attack and at moisture content above 16% seed get heated and the viability is lost.
Hence the seed should be stored at safe moisture levels of 11-13%
8. Seed size, weight and specific gravity: Seed size, weight and specific gravity has been found to
have positive correlation with seed germination and vigourin many crops. Therefore the seed
should be bold with high specific gravity.
9. Seed Colour: The colour of the seed often reflects the condition during seed maturation. The
farmers from ancient times have regarded good normal shineas invariable quality guides. The
colour and shine deteriorates only when the weather conditions are adverse during maturation
or when insects infest the crop or when it is handled badl
MALE STERILITY
For the production of hybrid seed, removal of anthers before fertilization is essential to
avoid selfing. Manually removing of anthers is very tedious and time consuming process
in almost all the crops except in Maize and Castor which are monoecious. The pre -
requisites for successful hybrid seed production in large quantities are:
1. Existence of male sterility or self-incompatibility through which handemasculation
can be avoided.
2. Sufficient cross-pollination should be there to get good seed set.
3. Male sterility is characterized by non-functional pollen grains while female
gametes functions normally. It occurs in nature sporadically due to mutations.
MS can be classified into three groups:
1. Genetic 2. Cytoplasmic 3. Cytoplasmic genetic
1.Genetic male sterility: GMS is mostly governed by single recessive gene ms, but
dominant genes governing male sterility are also known eg: Safflower, MS alleles arise
spontaneously or can be induced artificially. A GMS line can be maintained by crossing it
with heterozygous male fertile plant. Such mating produces 50% m.s. & 50% MF plants
msms x Msms (Male sterile) (Male fertile)

msms : Msms (1:1)(Male sterile) (Male fertile)

Identifying the male fertile plants from the above progeny is difficult and time consuming.
Hence GMS is not commonly used in hybrid seed production.
In USA it is used in Castor. In India it was being used in Redgram, but presently it is
being used in safflower.
Marker genes which are linked to male sterility/fertility can be used to identify
the male fertile plants before flowering stage. For example in Maize there is agene,
pigmented hypocotyl(P) and green hypocotyl (P ) which is closely linked with sterility
locus
P S - Pigmented & Sterile
P F – Green & Fertile
2..Cytoplasmic Male Sterility: In crops lik e Maize, Bajra and Sorghum, two types of
cytoplasms were noticed. One is normal cytoplasm and the other is sterile onewhich
interferes with the formation of normal pollen grains. This follows maternal inheritance
therefore all the off springs will be ma le sterile.
As the F1 is male sterile, this system cannot be used in crops where the seed is economic
part. Hence its utility is confined to certain ornamental species or where a vegetative part
is of economic importance. Eg: Onion, Fodder Jowar, Cabbage, Palak etc.
3. Cytoplasmic Genetic Male Sterility System: This is a case of cytoplasmic male sterility
where a nuclear gene for restoring fertility in MS line is known. The fertility restorer gene
‘R' is dominant and is found in certain strains of spe cies or may be transferred from a
related species. This gene restores fertility in the MS line hence itis known as restorer
gene. The cytoplasmic MS can be included in CGMS system as and when restorer genes
for them are discovered. Restorer genes can be found for all the cases of cytoplasmic MS
if thorough search is made. This system is used in almost all seed crops.
Seed storage :
Purpose of seed storage : The purpose of seed storage is to maintain the seed in good
physical and physiological condition from the time they are harvested until the time they
areplanted.
Stages of seed storage :
The seeds are considered to be in storage from the moment they reach physiological
maturity until they germinate or until they are thrown away because they are dead or
otherwise worthless. The storage period of seeds can be divided into following six stages.
1. Storage on plants (physiological maturity to harvest)
2. Harvest, process and storing in a warehouse
3. Storages in a warehouse
4. In transit (from warehouse to retailer)
5. Retail dealers storage
6. On the user’s farm
The seed quanlity i.e. germination and vigour can be considerable affected during above
storage periods if the seeds are not properly handled and proper storage is not followed.

Factors affecting seed longevity (long life span of seed) in storage

Seed ageing and loss of germination during storage cannot be stopped completely but it
can be minimized by providing good storage conditions. Important factors which affect
the longevity of seeds are as under.
1. Kind / variety of the seed : The genetic makeup of the lines / varieties influence the
storage period.
2. Initial seed quality : Seed damage during transit period at various stages due to
mechanical injury may reduce the longevity.
3. Moisture content : Moisture content of seeds to be stored determines the seed
viability and germination. If the moisture content is high, the quality will deteriorate
rapidly. 8-10 % moisture content is very safe to maintain good germination and
vigour for longer period.
4. Relative humidity and temperature during storage : Increase in relative humidity
andtemperature adversely affect the storage life of seeds. The relative humidity
should not exceed 50 % and temperature should be around room temperature. A
10°F decrease in temperature nearly doubles the storage period. Similarly 1 %
decrease in moisture content doubles the storage life. So good seed storage is
achieved when the percentage of relative humidity in storage environment and the
storage temperature in degree Farenhit add up to one hundred.
General principles of seed storage
 Seed storage conditions should be dry and cool.
 Storage must have effective pest control
 The seed stores must have proper sanitation
 The seeds should be dried to a safe moisture limit required for storage system.
 The seeds should be well cleaned, treated with proper insecticides, pesticides,
fungicide and should have high germination percent and vigourous.
Phases of seed certification or Seed certification procedures
1. Receipt & Scrutiny of application
2. Verification of seed source
3. Field inspection
4. Post harvest supervision of seed crops
5. Seed sampling & testing
6. Labelling, tagging, sealing and grant of certificate.
1) Receipt & scrutiny of application
Application for registration
 Any person, who wants to produce certified seed shall register his name with the concerned
Assistant Director (AD) of seed certification by remitting Rs. 25/- percrop, per season. There are
3 seasons under certification viz., kharif (June-Sep), Rabi (Oct. – Jan.) & Summer (Feb-May).
 The applicant shall submit two copies of the application to the ADSC 10 days before the
commencement of the season or at least at the time of registration of sowing report.
 On receipt of the application, the ADSC will verify the time limit, variety eligibility & its source,
the class mentioned, remittance of fee etc.
 The application, if accepted will be given an application no (e.g. Paddy / K / 01- 05-06, where
Paddy refers the crop to be registered, K-the season, 01-the application no & 05-06 -the financial
year). The original application is retained and the duplicate is returned to the applicant.
Sowing report: (Application for the registration of seed farm)
The seed producer who wants to produce certified seeds shall apply to the ADS.C, in the prescribed
sowing report form in quadriplicate with prescribed certification fees along with other documents such
as tags to establish the seed source.

Class of seed Source of seed

1. Foundation class Breeder seed
2. Certified class Foundation seed

3. F. Class stage II Foundation class stage – I

4. C. Class stage II Certified class stage - I

Separate sowing reports are required for different crop varieties, different classes, different stages and if
the seed farm fields are separated by more than 50 metres.
Separate sowing reports are also required if sowing or planting dates differby more than 7 days and if
the seed farm area exceeds 25 acres.
2) Verification of seed source
During his first inspection of seed farm the S.C officer, will verify whether theseed used to raise the seed
crop is from an approved source.
3) Field Inspection Objective
The objective in conducting field inspection is to verify the factors which cancause irreversible damage
to the genetic purity or seed health.
Inspection Authority
The seed certification officer authorized by the registering authority shallattend to field inspections.
Crop stages for inspection
The number of field inspections and the stages of crop growth at which the field inspections should be
conducted vary from crop to crop. It depends upon duration, and nature of pollination of the seed crop.
If the crop is grown for hybrid seed production, the no. of field inspections during the flowering stage
should be more than in the case of self-pollinated /cross/ often cross pollinated varieties.
In hybrid seed production and variety seed production of cross pollinated crops, the inspection during
flowering should be made without any prior notice of the seed grower to judge the quality of operation
undertaken by him to maintain the genetic purity of the crop. But in the case of self-pollinated crops the
seed grower may be informed about the date of inspection.
In the former case if prior notice is given to the seed grower, it may not be possible to detect the damage
by the contaminants, whereas in the latter case priornotice will lead to improvement of the quality of the
seed production work and thus the quality of seed.
3) Post Harvest Supervision Of Seed Crop
The post harvest inspection of a seed crop covers the operations carried out at the threshing floor,
transport of the raw seed produce to the processing plant, pre-celeaning, drying, cleaning, grading, seed
treatment, bagging & post processingstorage of the seed lot.
Pre-requisites for processing
 Processing report should accompany the seed lot
 ODV test for paddy should be done at the time of sealing & issue ofprocessing report or before
processing. If the result exceeds 1% the producemay be rejected.
 It should correlate with the estimated yield.
 Seed should be processed only in approved processing unit.
The seed certification officer in-charge of the seed processing plant may,after verification of the
above stated documents and total amount of seed acceptthe produce for processing.
After verification he should issue a receipt to the seed grower. Each seed lothas to be allocated a
separate lot number for identificating

5) Seed Sampling & Testing

During packaging S.C officer will draw samples according to ISTA Procedure& send the sample to
ADSC concerned within a day of sampling. The ADSC will inturn send the sample to the STL within 3
days of receipt of the sample for testing seed standards viz. physical purity, germination, moisture content
& seed health as prescribed. The STO will communicate the result to the ADSC concerned within 20
days.
On receipt of the analytical report, the ADSC will communicate the result tothe producer & SCO.
Labelling, tagging, sealing and grant of certificate
 After receiving the seed analytical report, the SCO will get the tag from the ADSC & affixes labels
(producer’s label) and tags (Blue for C.S & White for F.S) to the containers & sealed to prevent
tampering and grant certificate fixing a validity period for 9 months.
 Tagging should be done within 60 days of testing.
6) Resampling & Reprocessing
 When a seed lot does not meet the prescribed seed standards in initial test, on request of the
producer SCO may take resample.
 If the difference in germination analysed & required is within 10, thenstraight away re-sampling
can be done. If it is > 10, reprocessing & resampling may be done.
 The producer should request the SCO concerned in writing within 10 days from the receipt of the
result. No charge is collected for resampling.
HYBRID SEED PRODUCTION IN MAIZE
Production of hybrid maize seed involves three steps
1. Maintenance of parental lines (Inbreds)
2. Production of single cross
3. Production of commercial hybrids
a) Production of three way cross : (A X B) X C
b) Production of double cross : (A X B) X (C X D)

Maintenance of parental lines and production of single cross are called as

foundation seed production while production of three way cross or double cross is
known as certified seed.
Maintenance of inbred lines :
Land requirement (Selection of seed plot) : The soil should be well aerated and suitable
for maize growing. Selected field should be free from volunteer plants and weed plants.
It should have good drainage capacity as maize is sensitive to excess water as well as
drought conditions.
Isolation distance : The seed field of an inbred line must be isolated by not less than 400
m. from any maize field with the same kernel colour and texture and 600 m. from maize
field with different colour and texture.
(1) Seed rate : Female parent : 10 kg/ha, male parent : 5
kg/ha Ratio - Female : male row ratio
should be 4 : 2Planting time : 2nd week
of June to Mid July.
Roguing : Start roguing the distantly tall and vigorous plant when the crop is at knee light
stage. At pre-flowering stage, rogue off plants which are easily identified onthe basis
of plant characteristics such as leaf shape, size, plant height etc. Continue roguing
during flowering stage to remove plants differing in tassel or silk character.
Harvesting : Maze ears can be harvested when the seed moisture content is around15
per cent. The male rows are harvested first so as to avoid mixing of male ears with
female ears. After compilation of harvesting of male rows, harvesting of femalerows is
carried out. After harvest, sort out all off type maize ears, particularly those showing
different colours and torture and infested by disease.
Processing : Before shelling of maize ears they are once again examined and any off-type
or diseased ear is found, it is removed immediately. Processing for kernel is carried out
at processing plant under the supervision of staff of seed certification agency.
Minimum seed certification standard
Foundation seed
Germination (%) 90
Genetic purity (%) 98
Inert matter (%) 2
Other crop seeds (No./kg) 5
Weed seeds (No./kg) None
Moisture (%) 12
Seed production in cotton
Selection of seed plot : The land to be used for seed production must be free of volunteer
plants and weeds. The soil should be deep, well drained and should be retentive of
moisture and fertile. Plough the land with deep ploughing and harrow two to three
times followed by leveling to make it well pulverized.
Isolation distance : Cotton is mainly a self pollinated crop but natural cross
pollination to the extent of 1 to 10 % in G. arboretum and G. barbadense while
10to50%in
G. hirsutum has been recorded, so a minimum isolation distance of 50 meters for
foundation class and 30 meters for certified class is recommended.
1. Planting time :
Seed rate : American cotton : 20-25 kg/ha
Deshi Cotton : 12-
15kg/ha Spacing : American
Cotton : 90 x 30 cm
Deshi Cotton : 75 x 30 cm
2. Stage wise roguing : Roguing for off type and diseased plants should
start at vegetative growth stage, subsequent roguing should be done at
square initiation and flowering time.
Picking : The time of picking is important for maintaining seed quality. The picking should
start when the cotton is fully mature. Since maturing (ripening) ofballs is continuous
process several picking may be done. Seeds obtained from initial two to three picking
give better germination but planting seeds will be bestwhen collected at the peak of the
harvest. The seed cotton picked from last picking should not be kept for seeds or dew.
Balls damaged due to insect pest may be discarded for seed purpose.
Ginning and delinting : Ginning of cotton seed should be done on the gins approved by
certification agency. The machinery must be thoroughly cleaned before the ginning. Gin
only those cotton seed with a moisture content of 6 to 8 percent and the ginning rate
should not exceed 4.5 to 5.5. kg of lint cotton per hour. Removal of seed coat hairs and
short fiber that remains after ginning is called delinting. This may be done with the
help of either machine, acid orflame.
Seed cotton yield : Average seed cotton yield varies from 6 to 10 quintals per hectare
depending upon the yield potential of the variety.
3. Minimum seed certification standard
Foundation Certified
seed Seed
Germination (%) 65 65
Genetic purity (%) 98 98
Inert matter (%) 2 2
Other crop seeds (No./kg) 5 10
Weed seeds (No./kg) 5 10
Diseased seeds None None
Moisture (%) 8-10 8-10
Hybrid seed production in cotton
The hybrid cotton seed is produced by hand emasculation. The individual bud
emasculation of the female parent is done in the evening of the previous day and the
same ispollinated in the morning of next day with the pollens of male parent.
Selection of seed plot : The land selected for seed production must be free from
volunteer plants and weeds. The plot should not have cotton crop in the previous year
or season. It should be well drained, moisture retentive and well fertile. Prepare the
landwith deep ploughing followed by 2 to 3 harrowing and leveling.
Isolation distance : 50 meters from other cotton crop variety.
Planting ration, time, seed rate and spacingFemale to male ration is 4 : 1.
The flowering period in cotton is spread over a long time. So sowing of male parent
should be done in 2 to 3 installments at an interval of eight to ten days in order to get
sufficient pollens for pollination of female flower.
Time : onset of monsoon or one week earlier than usual date of onset of
monsoonSeed rate : Female parent : 3.75 kg/ha., male parent : 2,5 kg/ha.
Spacing : Female parent : 150 cm between rows, 100 cm within row.
: Male parent : 150 cm between row and 50 cm within row.
Precautions to be taken during crossing programme :
 Rogue out all off type plants before starting of the crossing programme.
 Emasculate the flower bud in the evening time i.e. 2 to 6 pm only and pollinate
them in the next morning between 9 to 13 pm.
 Emasculate the flower bud i.e. remove all the anthers carefully.
Do not choose very young or old buds for emasculation.
 Cover the buds of male parent with paper bags in the previous evening for their
use in the next day.
 Emasculated bud may be covered with coloured butter paper bag or soda straw
tube to identify for pollination in the next morning.
 Tie a thread to the pedicel of the bud after pollination. Cover crossed buds with
soda straw tube.
 Give light irrigation as and when required during the crossing programme.
Stage wise roguing : Roguing for off type and diseased plants should start at vegetative
growth stage. Subsequent roguing should be done at square initiation and flowering
time.
Picking of hybrid seeds : Pickup the ripe and completely opened balls along with
threads on and collect in basket for a second sorting. Collected crossed balls should be
sorted to verify that they are actually crossed seeds. Sundry for one to two days and
store in gunny bags till supplied to processing unit.
Ginning and delinting : Ginning cotton seed should be done on the gins approved by
certification agency. The machinery must be thoroughly cleaned before ginning. Gin
only those seed cotton with a moisture content of 6 to 8 % and the ginning rate should
not exceed 4.5 to 5.5. kg lint cotton per hour. Delinting may be done using machine,
acid or flame. Seed cotton yield : Average seed cotton yield varied from 8 to 10
quintals per hecature. Minimum seed certification standard (MSCS)
 Seed Production of Red gram (Pigeon Pea
Seed production of OPV:
Varieties: ICPL – 87 (Pragati): ICPL – 151 (Jagriti), Pusa – 33, JA – 4, JKM – 7, Asha (ICPL – 87119);
LRG – 30, LRG – 38, LRG – 41
Land Requirements
Land to be used for seed production of pigeon pea shall be free of volunteer plants. In addition the soil
should be light, well drained and with a neutral ph.
Isolation requirements:
Red gram is partially self and cross pollinated. Although anthers burst before flowers open, there is
considerable cross-fertilization by bees and other insects. Natural crossing to the extent of sixty five
percent has also been recorde d. Therefore, for maintaining variety purity an isolation of 200 mts. for
foundation seed class and 100 mts. for certified seed class is necessary from fields of other varieties and
of the same variety not confirming to varietal purity requirements of certification.
Brief cultural practices:
Obtain appropriate class of seed from the source approved by seed certification agency. The seed rate
required is 12-15 kg/ha and the spacing adopted is 60 x 25 cm to 75 x 30 cm. Other cultural practices
are similar to raising a commercial crop. Necessary prophylactic measures should be taken so as to raise
a good crop.
Roguing:
Rogue the off type plants and diseased plants affected by wilt, leaf spot and stem canker, yellow
mosaic virus and sterility virus from see d field from time to time, as required.
Number a field inspections:
A minimum two and maximum four field inspections are standardized forcertification of different seed
production programmes. For red gram, a minimum oftwo field inspections are required i.e. first one
before flowering and second inspection during flowering and fruiting to determine isolation, volunteer
plants, off types and diseased plants etc.
F/s C/s
Off types (%) 0.1 % 0.2 %
Harvesting and threshing:
The crop is harvested soon after the seed is mature. Harvesting is normallydone with sickle and the
crop is left in the field to dry for about one week. Threshing is done by beating the plants with sticks.
After threshing and cleaning the seed should be dr ied to 8 to 10 percent moisture before storage.
Necessary precautions should be taken to avoid mechanical mixtures during these operations.
Seed yield
The average seed yield varies from 20 to 25 quintals per hectare.
Redgram Hybrid Seed Production:
Hybrids : ICPH – 8 : PPH – 4, COH – 1, COH – 2,: AKPH – 2022, AKPH – 4101
To produce hybrid seed in bulk, male sterile lines are planted in the ratio of six male sterile rows
(Female): one pollinator row (Male). The hybrid seed plot is surrounded by four pollinator rows to
provide sufficient pollen load. In genetic male sterility (GMS) system 50% plants appears male fertile in
the female (MS) rows. Therefore, these fertile sibs needs to be uprooted immediately as the first bud
appearon the plant. The male sterile sibs those remain are to be tagged in the female rows. Periodic
picking of immature pods from the pollinator rows may prolong their flowering time. It is possible to
produce several hybrids in one isolation block using a common male parent and several male sterile, if
their flowering can be synchronized. Appropriate isolation distance of 200 m between two seed blocks
should be maintained to avoid contamination.
 Seed production of Tomato
Land Requirement : There are no specific requirem ents as to the previous crop, but the land
should be free from volunteer plants.
Isolation requirement: Tomato is predominantly a self-pollinated crop but crossing does takes place to
a negligible extent. Seed fields should be isolated from other varieties of tomato by at least 50 and 25m
for foundation and certified seed production respectively.
Brief cultural Practices:
Source : Obtain appropriate class of seed from the source approved by seed certification agency.
Seed Rate : 500 g per hectare.
Sowing of seed in nursery: The nursery grown in late October and transplanted in the first week of
December produces excellent seed crop. Seeds may be sown on raised
nursery beds (15-20cm high from the ground) in rows 3-4 cm apart. Twenty five nursery beds of size 2-
2.5 m long and 1 to 1.25 m wide will raise enough seedlings to transplant one hectare.
Transplanting : Transplant the seedlings when 7.5 – 10 cm height, preferably at evening time.
Spacing : 75 x 40 – 50 cm
Field Inspection: Seed crop should be inspected at least three times during the crop season, the first
before flowering, second during flowering and fruiting stage and third at mature fruit stage prior to
harvesting.
Fundation Certified
Offtypes 0.10 0.20
Plants affected by seed borne dis 0.10 0.50
eases
(Early blight, leaf spot and TMV)

Rouging: Careful rouging on individual plant basis is essential. Plants which are differing in
morphological characters from that of the seed crop should be removed to avoid cross pollination and at
maturity color and shape of the fruit is checked for offtypes. In addition to offtypes, diseased plants
affected by early blight leaf spot and mosaic from the field.
Harvesting: In tomato germination of seed is effected by stage of fruit maturity.Fruits on turning to
ripe red, red and over ripe stages are found to be good forextracting good quality seed.
Seed Yield: 100 – 120 kgs/ha
Seed Extraction: Tomato seed can be extracted manually using acid or fermentation methods or
mechanically method using axia l – flow vegetable seed and seed extraction methods.
Seed Drying and Storage : Seed should be dried by spreading in thin layer on the drying floor. In case
temperature exceeds 40oC the seed drying under partial shade is desirable. Under artificial conditions the
seed should be first dried at low temperature and then the temperature should be gradually increased to
40oC. The seed should be dried to a moisture level of 6-8% and packed in cloth bags or moisture proof
containers and keep it in cool and dry place. Careful and properly dried seed can retain its viability for
2-3 years even under ambient conditions.
Hybrid Seed Production
For hybrid seed production hand emasculation pollination is carried out. The male and female parents
are sown in separate blocks. During flowering period buds that are to flower next day are selected in
female parent and hand emasculated. While doing emasculation care should be taken not to damage the
flowers. After emasculation the flower buds are covered with butter paper bag to avoid
pollination/fertilization with foreign pollen.
Isolation distance: The isolation distance required are 200 and 100 for foundation and certified seed
class respectively from other varieties and hybrids.
Field Inspection: The number of field inspections required are four. The first field
inspection should be done before flowering stage, second and third during flowering stage and fourth
one before harvesting.
Foundation Certified
Offtypes in seed parent 0.10 0.50
Offtypes in male parent 0.10 0.50
Plants affected by seed borne diseases 0.10 0.50
(Early blight, leaf spot, TMV)
Roguing: Roguing should be done in both male and female parental line before starting the crossing
program. Offtypes can be identified based on morphologicalcharacters like leaf shape, plant type, flower
color etc.
Harvesting: Harvesting should be done when the fruits are fully mature. Harvest only the crossed fruits
and the seed should be extracted manually using acid orfermentation methods or mechanically me
thod using axial – flow vegetable seed and seed extraction methods.
 Seed Production of Brinjal
Land Requirement: There is no specific land requirement to previous crop but theland should be
free from volunteer plants. The soil should be fertile, rich in organic matter sandy loam and well drained.
Isolation Requirements: Brinjal is partially self and cross pollinated but self pollination is more
common. The extent of natural cross pollination depends on insect activity and has been recorded from
0-48%. For pure seed production seed fields must be isolated from other variety and fields of same
variety not confirming to varietal purity requirements of seed certification at least 200 m for foundation
seed production and 100m for certified seed production.
Brief cultural practices:
Source : obtain appropriate class of seed from the source approved by seedcertification agency
Seed Rate : 375 – 400 g per hectare
Sowing of seed in nursery: sowing time varies with the region and it should be adjusted in such
a way that maturity should not be coincide with rains. The winter crop needs special protection from
frost. Seeds are sown on raised nursery beds 15-20 cm high from ground level in rows of 2-3 cm apart.
Twenty five beds of 2-2.5 m long and 1-1.25 m wide will raise enough seedlings to plant one hectare.
Transplanting : The seedlings should be transplanted when they are of 12-15cm height.
Spacing : for non spreading type 60 x 60 m
Spreading type 75 x 60 cm
Field inspection: A minimum of three field inspections are required. First inspection should be done at
vegetative stage so as to verify isolation distance, presence ofvolunteer plants and other requirements.
The offtypes at this stage can be identified by morphological characters. Second and third inspection
should be done at flowering and fruiting stage. At this stage offtypes can be identified by colour of
the flower,fruit shape , size etc.
Foundation Certified
Offtypes 0.10 0.20
Plants affected by seed borne 0.10 0.50
diseases
Roguing: At least three roguings should be done. First roguing should be done at vegetative stage.
Offtypes at this stage can be identified by plant type, leaf shape, leaf colour, presence of thorns etc.
second and third roguing should be done at flowering and fruiting stage
Harvesting: Brinjal fruits are allowed to mature beyond the edible stage before harvesting for seed
purpose. Seeds obtained from the fruits harvested at completely yellow color stage recorded the highest
fruit seed yield per hactare and germination.
Seed Extraction: Usually the fruits are cut and crushed and seed is extracted by
washing and seiving. Extraction should be started in the morning hours so that theseed is atle at half
dried till evening, else there is danger of germination in the process.
Seed yield: 100 – 120 kg/ha
Hybrid Seed Production: In brinjal hybrid seed is produced by manual emasculation and pollination
technique. The variety which gives large fruits and more number of seeds per fruit should be taken as
female parent. The male and female parent should be planted in separate blocks by following the same
management practices. Before hybridization program starts remove all the offtypes from both male and
female parental lines. During hybridization select a flower bud in female parent which opens next day
morning and the emascualtion should be done in the evening time between
3.00 to 6.0 PM. After emascualtion the flower buds should be bagged with a butter paper bag to
avoid contamination. Next day morning bring the male flowers andpollinate the emsaculated flower buds
between 7.0 to 11.00 AM. After pollination the crossed flower bud should be bagged and a tag should
be attached at the pedicel.
Air Screen Machine
Principle: The separation of undesirable material from seed is done on the basis of differences in seed
size and weight. The air screen machine uses three cleaning elements:
Aspiration: the light seed and chaffy material is removed from the seed mass through
aspiration.
Scalping: Good seed are dropped through screen openings but large material (trash, clods etc.) are
scalped off over the screen into a separate spout.
Grading: The good seed ride over the screen openings, while smaller particles (undersized, weed seeds,
shriveled) drop through the screen perforations.
Parts of air screen cleaner:
Feed hopper: It consists of a container to receive the seed, hopper flights and augers to spread the seed
across the width of the hopper and a feed control at the bottom of thehopper for steady flow of the
seeds.
Screens : screens perform both scalping and grading operations. They separate crop seed from foreign
material, other crop seeds and weed seeds. Screens are constructed of either perforated metal sheet or
wire mesh. The openings in the perforated metal sheet may be rounding, oblong or triangular. Openings
in wire mesh screens are square or rectangular.
Clay crushing rolls: these are installed to crush clay lumps without damaging the seed. These are two
rubber rolls made of hard rubber to crush clay lumps without damaging the seed. The rolls are adjustable
to various opening width or they be left apart when not needed.
Brushes : Brushes are used to clean the screens and they travel back and forth undereach screen.
Cleaning efficiency is directly related to the percentage of the perforationsthat remain open.
Tappers or screen knockers: These are used over scalping screens to keep them clean.
Shoes: the vibrating or shaking sections of the machines into which the screens arefitted are called
shoes. A shoe contains fittings of two screens one for scalping and the other for grading.
Eccentrics : the device used for shaking the shoes is called eccentrics.
Fans : Number of fans range form one in small cleaners to four in large cleaners. But most of them have
two air systems, which are called as upper and lower air systems. The upper air systems removes light
chaffy and dust from the seed before they reach the first screen. The lower air blast removes light seed
and trash not removed by the upper air or screen.
Air Chest: Air passageways from the fans are connected to air chamber, which allowthe material
lifted by the air stream to settle. This is done by decreasing the air velocity asit passes through air
chest or air chamber. The lifted material settles down by gravity and is spoute d out of the air chest.
Principle of Operation of air screen machine:
 The air blast removes lightweight seed and chaffy seed.
 Scalping screen removes material larger than the crop seed.
 Grading screen drop out material smaller than crop seed.
 Eccentrics do the shaking motions of the screens.
 The two shoes in 4 screen cleaner move in opposite direction to balance each otheralso to
reduce machine vibrations to minimum.
 In four screen cleaner, the screens do the following
 First screen does scalping Second screen does grading Third screen does close scalping Fourth
screen does close grading
The seed to be cleaned is fed from the feed hopper which passes through the upper air which removes
light seed, chaffy seed and dust particles. The top screen is used for rough scalping. Its perforations are
large enough so that good seeds will be dropped through screen perforations and material bigger
than seed like trash, stems, sticks, mud particlesetc. are scalped off on the screen.
Gravity or Weight separations
1. Gravity separator The gravity separator employs a flotation principle. In this
separation seeds are vertically stratified in layers on the deck according to density. Seeds of
same size are stratified and separated by differences in their specific gravity. The oscillating
movement of the table walks the heavy seeds in contact with the deck uphill while the air floats
the light seeds downhill. The seeds travelling to the edge of the table range from light atthe
lower end to heavy at the upper end. The discharge can be divided into any number of density
fractions.
1. Remov al of badlydeteriorated diseased seed andinsect damaged seed.
2. Removal of empty
or sterile seed.
3. Removal of soil particles and gravel and send mixedwith certain kind of seeds.
4. Removal of contaminating cropor weed seed.
Powers of seed inspectors : - Sector IX Rule 23 specifics duties of seed inspector which may be
summarized as follows.
 He can draw representative samples of any kind / variety from any person selling such seed &
send them analysis to the seed analyst.
 To enter & search any place in which he believes that an offered under thus Acthas been
committed. He can order not to despise of any stock of such seed for specific period not exceeding
30 days.
 To examine any record, register or document & seize them, if he feels that they can furnish
evidence of an offered punishable under the Act.
 On demand to pay the cost of seed calculated at the rate at which such seed is sold to the
pubic.
 He can break open the door & premises of seed seller if the seller refuses to open the door.
 Search seize the stocks & records etc.
 He can investigate any complaint made to him in writing.
 He can investiture prosecutions in respect of breach of out & rules
 Prohibit the sales of such seed which he fee ls are below the minimum limits of germination or
improperly labeled & can initiate action against the sellers.
Types of seed treatment
Seed disinfection: It refers to eradication of fungal spores present within the seed coat or more deep
seated tissues. For effective control the fungicide must penetrate into the seed to kill the fungus.
Seed disinfestations : It refers to the destruction of surface borne organisms that contaminated the seed
surface but not infected the seed. Chemical dips, soaks, fungicides applied as dust, slurry or liquids have
been found successful.
Seed protection: To protect the seed and young seedling from organisms in thesoil which might
otherwise cause delay of the seed before germination.
Conditions under which seed must be treated.
Injured seeds : Seeds suffer mechanical injury during threshing, drying or processing. Any break in the
seed coat offers an excellent opportunity for the fungi toenter the seed and either kill it or weaken it.
Diseased seeds : Seed may be infected by disease organisms at the time of harvestor during processing
in storage.
Undesirable soil conditions : Seeds are sometimes planted under unfavourable soil conditions such as
cold and damp soils, which favours the growth and developmentof certain spores enabling them to
attack and damage the seeds.
Disease free seed: Seed treatment provides a good insurable against diseases, soil borne organisms and
thus protects weak seeds enabling them to germinate andprovide seedlings.
Chemicals used for Seed treatment
Mercurial Compounds
Organo mercurials – used for small grains, flax cotton, and safflower. Proper dosage is critical over
dosage results in seed injuring and under dosage fails to control the disease.
Eg: Phenyl Mercuric acetate (PMA) Methoxy ethyl Mercury chloride (MEMC) Ethyl Mercuric chloride
(EMC)
Inorganic mercurials: Are limited to mercuric chloride, mercurious chloride and mercuric oxide. These
materials are used to treat the seeds, roots, tubers and vegetable crops.
Non Mercurials
Organic Non Mercurials : such as thiram and captan are widely used. They areless effective than
the organic mercurials less damaging to the seeds and less dangerous to the persons handling the seeds.
The se fungicides act as seed disinfestants and or seed protectants. Over dosage is not harmful and
viability isnot effected.
Eg: Thiram, Captan, Carbendazim, Metalaxyl.
Inorganic Non Mercurials : Copper carbonate, Copper sulphate, Cuprous oxideare the major
inorganic Non Mercuric compounds used as fungicides. Copper carbonate and Copper sulphate are used
on wheat for prevention of bunt diseases. Cuprous oxide prevents seed decay and damping of in
vegetable
Procedure for certification of seeds :
As per the provision of seeds act, 1966 and seed rules, 1968, the certification ofseeds is
done in the following manner :
Application for seed certification : All those interested in certified seed productionare
required to submit an application in prescribed performa to the concerned state seed
certification agency along with an application fee Rs. 25/-. The seed certification agency
upon receipt of the application will verify the following conditions :
I. That the variety/varieties are notified and eligible for seed certification.
II. That the source of seed is authentic and in accordance with the conditionslaid
down in the minimum seed certification standards.
III. That there would be no difficulties in reaching the field for carrying out
timely field inspections.
IV. That the seed producer is able to provide requisite isolation and the seed field
meets the land requirement as per minimum seed certification standards.
V. That the seed processing facilities are available to the seed producer.
VI. That the requisite application fee has been paid. If the applicant fulfills the
above conditions than certification agency would undertake the certification.
Seed certification fees : The application on the basis of above verification is accepted by
the agency then the applicant has to pay certification fees as under :
Inspection fees includes field inspection, supervision during seed processing, seed
treatment, packing, seed sampling, sealing and issue of certificate.
Self pollinated crop Rs. 325/ ha.Hybrid, vegetable crops Rs. 175/ha.
Seed testing : Rs. 600/sample
Re processing : Rs.250/quintal
Re testing : Rs. 600/sample
Re validation fee : Rs.20/quintal
Inspection of seed fields : Staff of seed certification agency make field inspection at
appropriate stages of growth to ensure that the minimum standards for isolation, preceding
(previous) crop requirement, roguing are maintained at all the times and will maintain the
records of inspections.
Rejecting the field : After completion of inspection season, the staff submits the report of
field inspection and problems to the Director of Seed Certification Agency.The board of
Directors review the cases and if found not in accordance with the minimum certification
standards then officially reject the seed field.
Inspection of seed processing : The representative of seed certification agency makes the
visit of processing unit as may be required to check the mechanical admixture, seed is
cleaned and graded in satisfactory manner, seed is suitably dried, seed treatment is given
and seed lot is made homogenous (uniform).
Seed sampling : The staff of the agency take samples of all the seed lots which are required
to carry the tags. These seed samples are then sent to seed testing laboratoryfor evaluation
of genetic purity, germination and moisture content. If seed lots fail tomeet the requisite
standard then re-sampling and re-testing is done.
Tagging and sealing : After receiving the satisfactory report from official seed testing
laboratory, tagging and sealing of seed lots is done under the supervision of
the agency staff. Fixing of tags and seals on the seed container will complete the
certification process.
Control plot testing : The seed certification agency arrange for a post season grow out
test (GOT) and concern the plant breeder to check the genetic purity.
Extension of validity period : The extension of validity period of certified seeds shallbe for
a period of six months and at each subsequent validation as long as the seed confirms the
prescribed standards.
Revocation of certification : If the certification agency is satisfied that the certificate
granted by the agency has been obtained by mis-representation by theseed producer, the
agency will give grower a chance to submit causes and if grower does not satisfy the
situation then agency will revoke (withdraw) the certificate.
Appeal against certification agency : Any seed producer aggrieved by a decision of a
certification agency may appeal against the certification agency to the appellate authority
specified by the state government within 30 days from receiving therejection letter from
agency. The appellate authority will discuss the matter criticallyand pass the necessary
order. The decision of the authority is final.

Duties of seed inspector

 He should arrange for suitable application, inspection and report forms.
 He should identify the authentic source of seed for further multiplication.
 He should ensure that certified seed should be produced form acceptable breeder
orfoundation seeds.
 He should ensure through field inspections that minimum standards for isolation,
planting ratio, roguing, etc are maintained as per the prescribed standards.
 To assist the seed producer at the time of harvesting, threshing, drying and
processing to prevent any type of mixture.
 To issue appropriate seed certification tags for seed lots which fulfills all the criteria
inspections.
 To sample and inspect seed lots and submit such samples to the seed testing
laboratory.
 To carryout educational programme to promote the use of certified seeds.
 To maintain adequate record so that the eligibility of specific lot can be determined.
 To investigate violation of prescribed standards or complaints from users of
certifiedseed and to take appropriate action.
Characteristics Monocot Seed Dicot Seed

Monocot seeds are defined as

Dicot seeds are defined as seeds that
seeds that consist of a single
Definition consist of two embryonic leaves or
(mono) embryonic leaf or
cotyledons.
cotyledon.

Monocot seeds have a single Dicot seeds have two distinct

Number of cotyledons
cotyledon. cotyledons.

The cotyledons in monocot seeds The cotyledons in dicot seeds are fleshy
are thin and small. and store food materials.

Cotyledons
The cotyledons are mostly non- The cotyledons are photosynthetic and
photosynthetic and absorb food can produce food for the growing
from the adjacent endosperm. embryo.

The endosperm is present which

The endosperm is reduced or even
Endosperm stores a large amount of food for
absent.
the embryo.

The plumule in monocots occurs

Plumule The plumule in dicots occurs laterally.
terminally.

Coleorhiza is present around the Coleorhiza is absent around the radicle

Coleorhiza
radicle in monocot seed. in the dicot seed.

Coleoptile is present around the

Coleoptile Coleoptile is absent in dicot seed.
plumule in monocot seed.

The shape and size of the

The shape and size of the dicot are
monocot are variable, but these
Shape and size variable, but these are usually more
are usually less symmetrical and
symmetrical and larger in size.
smaller in size.

The seed pod of monocots is The seed pod of dicots can have
Seedpod
usually trimerous. numerous to zero seeds.
Seed Dormancy
It is the resting stage (or) survival mechanism of the seed because dormancy delays
germination, therefore it is of great importance and effectiveness as a survival mechanism.
Based on Amen (1963) definition, the dormancy can be classified into two
A.Innate dormancy / Primary dormancy
B. Secondary dormancy
A. Innate dormancy / primary dormancy
It is the state of the seed itself or dormancy induced in the seeds at the time of dispersal from the mother
plant i.e. the dormancy may be induced before maturity, during maturity and after maturity but before
seed is dispersed from mother plant.
B. Secondary dormancy
Secondary dormancy can take place only in a matured and imbibed seed by certain environmental
conditions, which are unfavourable to germination. (e.g.) Spring wheat and winter barley, the secondary
dormancy could be imposed by
Exposure of dry barely seed to temperature between 50 and 90 0 C
Storage of winter barely for seven days in high moisture containers at 20 0 C.
Storage of spring wheat for one day at high moisture content in airtight containers at 50 0 C.
Placement of seed under water and in darkness for 1 to 3 days at 2 0 C.
Secondary Dormancy Mechanism
Imposition of blocks of crucial points in the metabolic sequence that leads to germination.
An unfavourable balance of growth promoting versus growth inhibiting primary dormancy
(coat imposed dormancy)
1. Primary dormancy is further classified into endogenous and exogenous .
Exogenous dormancy is due to the seed coat factor either due to presence of inhibitors or hard seed
nature. It is further classified into,
Physical – Dormancy is due to the hard seed coat which prevents the entry of water and sometimes
gaseous exchange is also prevented. e.g. Hard seeds of pulses, acacias. Prosopis, sapota etc.,
Chemical – Presence of some inhibitors in the seeds coat which prevents the germination
Mechanical – restriction of the growth of protruding radicle due to structure. (e.g.) inadequate space in
the seeds of Terminalia sp.
Endogenous dormancy – Dormancy due to embryo. May be the presence of inhibitors , immature
embryo or combination of both. It is further classified into
Morphological – Due to immature embryo, which is not able to putforth germination even under
favourable conditions . (e.g.) Apple
Physiological – Due to arrest of the metabolic activity in the seeds due to presence of some inhibitors
like ABA, coumarines, phenols etc.,
Morphophysiological – Combination of immature embryo with inhibitors.
Secondary Dormancy
Whose germination is inhibited , fail to recover even when the inhibitory factor is removed. Adoptive
mechanism to pass the adverse environmental condition.
2. Types of secondary dormancy
Thermo –Dormancy due to temperature
Skoto – Light; Photo – Quality of light and Osmotic – stress or high osmotic stress prevents germination
According to Harper (1977) dormancy may be classified into following,
Nature of origination i. innate ii. Induced iii. Enforced
Time of origin i. Primary ii. Secondary
Location of dormancy i. Exogenous ii. Endogenous iii. Combined.
 Deterioration of Crop Varieties
Deterioration of Genetic Purity
The genetic purity of a variety or trueness to its type deteriorates due to severalfactors during the production
cycles. Kadam (1942) listed the following important factors responsible for deterioration of varieties.
1. Developmental variations
2. Mechanical mixtures
3. Mutations
4. Natural crossing
5. Minor genetic variations
6. Selected influence of pest and diseases
7. The techniques of the plant breeder
Developmental Variations
When seed crops are grown under environments with differing soil fertility, climate, photoperiods, or at
different elevations for several consecutive generation's developmental variations may set in as
differential growth responses.
It is therefore, preferred to grow the varieties of crops in the areas of their natural adaptation to minimize
developmental shifts.
Mechanical Mixtures
Mechanical mixtures, the most important reason for varietal deterioration, often take place at the time of
sowing if more than one variety is sown with the same seed drill, through volunteer plants of the same
crop in the seed field, or through different varieties grown in adjacent fields. Two varieties growing next
to each other field is usually mixed during harvesting and threshing operations. The threshing equipment
is often contaminated with seeds of other varieties. Similarly, the gunny bags, seed bins and elevators
are also often contaminate, adding to the mechanical mixtures of varieties.
Roguing the seed fields critically and using utmost care during seed production and processing are
necessary to avoid such mechanical contamination.
Mutations
Mutations do not seriously deteriorate varieties. It is often difficult to identify or detect minor mutations
occurring naturally. Mutants such as, 'fatuoids' in oats or'rabbit ear' in peas may be removed by roguing
from seed plots to purify the seeds.
Natural Crossing
Natural crossing can be an important source of varietal deterioration in sexually propagated crops. The
extent of contamination depends upon the magnitude of natural cross-fertilization. The deterioration sets
in due to natural crossing with undesirable types, diseased plants or off types. In self-fertilized crops,
natural crossing is not a serious source of contamination unless variety is male sterile and is grown in
close proximity with other varieties. The natural crossing, however, can be major source of contamination
due to natural crossing are the breeding system of the species, isolation distance, varietal mass and
pollinating agent
Minor Genetic Variations
Minor genetic variations can occur even in varieties appearing phenotypically uniform and homogenous
when released. The variations may lost during later production cycles owing to selective elimination by
the nature. The yield trials oflines propagated from plants of breeder's seed to maintain the purity of self-
pollinated crop varieties can overcome these minor variations. Due care during the maintenance of
nucleus and breeder's seed of cross-fertilized varieties of crop is necessary.
Selected Influence of Pest and Diseases
New crop varieties often are susceptible to newer races of pests and diseases caused by obligate parasites
and thus selectively influence deterioration. The vegetatively propagated stock also can deteriorate
 Seed production of hybrid rice
The successful development and use of hybrid rice technology in china during 1970s led the
way for development and release of rice hybrid. In India 14 rice hybrids have been bred and
released for commercial cultivation by some the state agricultural universities and private
seed companies.
Hybrid rice can be produced in the following ways.
Three line system : This involves multiplication of cytoplasmic genetic malesterile line (A
line), maintainer line (B line) and a restorer line (R line). Finally production F1 hybrid seed (A
x R)
Two line approach : This involves the use of photoperiod sensitive genetic male sterile (PSMS)
and any normal line can serve as a restorer.
By using chemical emasculators : Chemicals which act as male gametocytes have been
developed which can sterilize the stamen without affecting the normal functioning of pistil.
These chemicals are used to emasculate female parent for hybrid rice production. In this
method, two varieties are planted in alternate strips and one is chemically sterilized and
pollinated by the other.
Steps involved in seed production :
Selection of seed field : The field should be free of volunteer plant, well leveled, should have
fertile soil with good physical properties and well drainage facilities.
Isolation : The hybrid rice field should be isolated from other paddy fields by 200 meters for
foundation seed and 200 meters for hybrid seed production (A x R)
Synchronization of flowering : Synchronizing of flowering of both parents is the key factor to
increase the yield. Technical measure such as staggered planting of female and male parents
may be adjusted to ensure synchronizing the flowering time. In addition, one or two extra
planting of male parents may be done to extend the time of availability of pollens. Flowering
time can be manipulated by additional fertilizer application and regulation of water in the
field.
4. Methods of improving seed setting :
A. Supplementary pollination : This can be done by pulling the nylon rope back and forth
on the restorer line and panicles of restorer lines are shaken which helps in transfer of
pollen grains.
B. Leaf clipping : Clipping of leaves prior 1-2 days of panicle emergence will increase the
probability of pollination and out crossing so blade of the flagleaf may be clipped.
C. GA3 application : Spraying of 60 ppm (60 mg/l) solution of GA 3 on the female parent
two to three times at the time of panicle emergence will increase quick exertion of
panicle and helps in seed setting.
5. Roguing : The seed field should be free of rogues (off type plants). Remove off type plants
in the male and female parents. First before panicle initiation and then soon after emergence
of panicles. Rogue out the plants of maintainer lines or semi-sterile plants from the female
parent plot as and when required.
Harvesting and processing : Harvest male rows first to avoid chances of mechanical mixture.
Moisture percentage in the grain at the time of harvesting should be less than 18 percent for
combine harvester or harvested by hand and must be sun dried to 12 percent for storing
purpose. Cleaning of seeds should be done taking enough care to avoid mixture. Store the
seed in cool and dry place.
SEED VIGOUR TEST
The main limitation of the germination test is its inability to detect quality differences
among seed lots with high germination percentages. Vigour test is a more sensitive test,
which aims at detecting such differences. Seed vigour is defined as “the sum of the
properties, which determine the potential level of activity and performance of the seed or
seed lot during germination and seedling emergence”. Seeds, which perform well, are
termed high vigour seeds. Many methods have been developed to assess seed vigour,
among them the most common methods are described below.
Speed of Germination
Seed lots with similar total germination often vary in their rate of germination and growth.
The germination index suggested by Czabator (1962) and Djavanshir and Pourbeik (1976)
for treeseeds is based on the following formula
Cumulative number of normal seedlings
Total number of Normal seedlings
Days of germination
countsDays of final
count
Germination value = Peak value of
Seedling growth test
The standard germination test only distinguishes between normal and abnormal
germinants. Variations in seedling size and vigour are likely to occur within the category
“normal seedling”. Since initial growth is highly influenced by the seed, evaluation of
seedling vigour expressed as i) dry weight or ii) evaluated as size classes, is inturn an
expression of seed vigour. Conductivity Test
Low vigour seeds have been shown to possess decreased membrane integrity as a result of seed
deterioration and mechanical injury. During imbibition, seeds having poor membrane
structure release cytoplasmic solutes into the imbibing medium. These solutes with
electrolytic properties carry an electrical charge that can be detected by a conductivity
meter.
Accelerated ageing test
Un-imbibed seeds are subjected to conditions of high temperature (41°C) and relative
humidity (around 100%) for short periods (3 to 4 days). The seeds are then removed from
the stress conditions and placed under optimum germination conditions. The high vigour
seed lots will show only slight decline in germination compared to low vigour seed lots.
Exhaustion test
It is based on the principle that seeds germinated in darkness do not carryout
photosynthesis but rely entirely on nutrients derived form the seeds. The germinants
become etiolated and after a specific test period, the dry weight of the seedlings is
measured. Seedlings derived formhigh vigour seeds have the highest dry weight.
Cold test
Seeds are placed in soil or paper towels lined with soil and exposed to cold for a specified
period, during which stress from imbibition, temperature and microorganisms occur.
Following the cold treatment, the seeds are placed under favourable growth conditions and
allowed to germinate.
Brick grit test or Hiltner test
The ability of the seeds to overcome physical stress is evaluated by germinating the seeds
undera 3-4 cm thick layer of crushed brick stone or gravel.
Seed legislation in India :
In India until mid-sixties (except in Jammu and Kashmire where an Act in
respect of legislation of vegetable seeds was in force), there was no legislation
governing the quality of seeds sold by farmers. The rapid development of agricultural
production with the introduction of hybrid varieties of maize, jowar (sorghum) and
pearlmillet (pearlmillet), dwarf varieties of wheat and paddy, however, necessitated
the enactment of seed legislation on 29th December, 1966, the Seeds Act was passed.
It came into force throughout the country on 2nd October, 1969.
The main features of the Seeds Act, 1966 are as under :

1. Applicability : It is applicable only to notified varieties of seed and

vegetatively propagating materials used for sowing.
2. Sanctioning legislation : The Act provides for the formation of an apex
advisory body viz., Central Seed Committee, Central Seed Certification
Board, establishment of Seed Certification Agencies and State Seed Testing
Laboratories etc.
3. Regulatory legislation : The Act provides for the provisions for notification of
kinds/varieties to be brought under the purview of the Seed Act regulation
regarding the sale of seed and the establishment of suitable seed
enforcement machinery. Under the Act, the Central Govt. is empowered to
make rules to carry out the purposes of the Act and to give necessary
directions to State Govt. for execution of provisions of the Act or Rules in the
state.