Testing Methods

Accelerated Aging

A vigor test that evaluates how well seed withstands high-temperature and high-humidity stress. 

Bacterial Plating Tests

Detects specific seedborne bacterial pathogens by culturing seed extracts on selective growth media. 

Blotter Tests

Detects seedborne fungi by allowing fungi associated with seed to develop for identification. 

Carryover RIB Corn Testing

Evaluates germination of the main and refuge components of carryover RIB corn and cold performance of the blended seed lot. 

Cover Crop Testing

Provides germination, purity, and noxious weed testing for cover crop seed based on its intended use or sale. 

Fungal Plate Tests

Detects specific seedborne fungi by allowing fungi associated with seed to grow on agar media for identification. 

Herbicide Bioassay

Determines the percentage of a seed lot that expresses tolerance to a specific herbicide. 

Immunoassay Testing

Uses antibody-based methods such as ELISA and lateral-flow strips to detect biotech trait proteins or certain seedborne pathogens. 

Noxious Weed Seed Examination

Examines seed for legally designated noxious weeds based on where the seed will be sold, distributed, or exported. 

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Detects specific DNA sequences associated with biotech traits or certain seedborne pathogens. 

Purity Analysis

Determines the percentages of pure seed, other crop seed, weed seed, and inert matter in a seed lot. 

Saturated Cold Test

Evaluates seed vigor under severe, controlled cold, wet, and low-oxygen stress. 

Standard Germination Test

Determines the percentage of seed that produces normal seedlings under favorable, controlled conditions. 

Tetrazolium (TZ) Test

Rapidly determines seed viability by evaluating living tissues within the seed. 

Tray Cold Test (Iowa Cold Test)

Evaluates seed vigor following exposure to cold, wet conditions using a traditional Iowa State-developed cold test. 

Visual Examination

Examines seed for specified weeds, insects, pathogens, or other contaminants, including Purity Visual and Purity Wash examinations commonly used for export. 

Wash and Soak Tests

Detects certain seedborne fungi and nematodes through extraction and microscopic examination.