b'SEED TESTINGNew Seed Tests and Technologies A round-up of the new tests, testing methods and equipment being used in Alberta to expand knowledgeof seed quality, and a look at whatsto come. SEED TESTING IN Alberta is evolving with new methods and technologies. Its also expanding to include more crops. The Alberta Seed Guide has gathered together information on the latest and most innovative tests and devices being used at the provinces main seed testing labs. Leaders at these labs have also shared some insights on how these tests and equipment can better determine seed quality and provide more information to growers. And lastly, weve included some thoughts on how testing may evolve in years to come. Higher-Accuracy Planting Time At 20/20 Seed Labs in Nisku, Alta., they are in their second year of offering a detailed germination test using a thermogradient table, Sarah Foster, company president and senior seed analyst, says. The device allows them to measure germination rates at various temperatures, enabling growers in turn to plant at a soil temperature, which will result in maximum emergence. Before we purchased the table, we would follow the recommendation from the seed seller for the best temperature to test germination rate, for example, wheat at 5 C, Foster explains. If we did tests for a customer at two or more temperatures, it would take more time and still didnt give the total picture.With the table, we can now do a range of temperatures all at the same time, usually one degree apart from 5 to 10 C on cereals for example. In this way, the germination sweet spot is found for the grower, and he or she can plant with total confidence for that lot. If there are no significant differences in germination rate at some or all of the temperatures, says Foster, growers will know they have a range of soil temperatures that will provide maximum germination. The table also lets 20/20 staff examine The radical emergence test is a further determination of vigour wherehow different temperatures affect the growth of diseases which the speed of radical emergence from the seed is measuredthe fastercan be present on seeds. and more uniform this occurs, the more vigorous the seed.We started promoting it last year and weve had really good PHOTO: SEED CHECK TECHNOLOGIES uptake, says Foster. This test should be done in the spring, 106seed.ab.ca'