Test Seed Germination at Home!

Kharif Season Awareness Series – Part 2

As the Kharif season approaches, farmers begin preparations for sowing. Choosing the right seeds is the first and most crucial step toward a successful and high-yielding crop. Every year, many farmers purchase new seeds from the market. However, despite the high cost, there is no guarantee of their germination quality. This uncertainty can lead to wasted time, effort, and money. That’s why using viable seeds is key to a successful Kharif season.

In this article, we will explore why seed germination should be tested, its benefits, and how it can be easily and scientifically done at home. This information is brought to you courtesy of the District Agriculture Officer’s Office.

Is it necessary to buy new seeds every year?

Many farmers believe that fresh seeds must be purchased every year. However, crops like soybean, moong, urad, wheat, cowpea, and groundnut are self-pollinated, meaning they don’t pose the risk of hybrid variation. Thus, seeds harvested from certified seeds can be reused for up to two years.

This helps avoid unnecessary annual seed expenses—but it’s still essential to test the germination capacity before use.

Why relying solely on market seeds is risky

Sometimes purchased seeds fail to germinate, leading to loss of valuable inputs like fertilizers, time, and labor. When the ideal sowing window passes, farmers face the stress of filing complaints, damage assessments, and compensation claims—causing financial and mental distress.

The solution? Test germination before sowing. The good news—this can be done easily at home.

Three Simple Ways to Test Germination at Home

1. Using a Jute Sack (Goni Method):
Take a few seeds from each bag and mix them. Prepare three samples of 100 seeds each. Place the seeds in rows of 10 on a wet jute sack. Cover with another wet sack, roll it up, and keep it in the shade. After 6–7 days, count the germinated seeds. If 70% or more germinate, the seeds are suitable.

2. Using Waste Paper:
Fold a waste paper sheet into four layers and wet it. Place 100 seeds in 10 rows of 10 seeds each. Roll it up and keep it in a plastic bag. After a few days, count the sprouted seeds. If 70% or more have germinated, the seeds are good to use.

3. Soaking in Water (Quick Test):
Make three sets of 100 seeds and soak them in water for 5–7 minutes. Discard shriveled or bloated seeds. Swollen ones are unfit. Smooth and firm seeds are considered good. If 70% or more are good, the seed lot is viable.

Why Seed Treatment is Necessary Before Sowing

No matter how good the seeds are, they must be properly treated. Applying fungicides and biofertilizers enhances germination and boosts resistance to diseases.

In Summary:

Instead of buying seeds every year, farmers can prepare and use viable seeds at home.

✔️ Test germination at home before sowing:
Use seeds with more than 70% germination. If the rate is lower, increase the seed rate accordingly. Don’t forget to treat the seeds with fungicide and biofertilizer.