Test Overview
A Noxious Weed Seed Examination determines whether seeds of legally designated noxious weeds are present in a seed lot.
The weeds included in the examination depend on where the seed will be sold, distributed, or exported. Testing may be conducted for:
- A specific U.S. state
- All U.S. states
- Canada
- Other countries, based on the requirements of the destination country
Noxious Weed Seed Examination is commonly requested along with a Purity Analysis when seed is intended for sale.
Test Details
A representative working sample is examined for noxious weed seeds. The required working weight is specified by the applicable testing rules and is based on the species being tested.
For testing under AOSA Rules, the working weight generally represents approximately 25,000 seeds of the species being tested.
When a Purity Analysis is also requested, the portion examined for purity is included as part of the Noxious Weed Seed Examination.
Any noxious weed seeds found are identified and reported according to the requirements applicable to the examination requested.
Sample Requirements
The amount of seed required varies by species and may also vary depending on the destination and testing requirements.
See How Much Seed Should I Send?
Please indicate where the seed will be sold, distributed, or exported so the appropriate examination can be performed.