Measuring Seed Germination

What is a germination test?

A germination test determines the percentage of seeds that are alive in any seed lot. The level of germination in association with seed vigor provides a very good estimate of the potential field performance. While the speed of germination varies slightly across varieties, seeds should absorb moisture within two days and produce a root and the first leaf within four days. At this point, the seed is considered to have germinated.

Why is measuring germination important?

A germination test is often the only test a farmer can conduct on the seed to determine if it is suitable for planting. When seed is stored in traditional open systems, the germination rate of most rice seed begins to deteriorate rapidly after six months. Also, many varieties have a dormancy period immediately after harvest that can last for 1−2 months. By knowing the germination rate, farmers can adjust their planting rates to attain the desired plant population in the field.

How to measure germination?

Equipment

Seed Germinator Chamber   GTOP series

GTOP Intelligent Illumination Incubator is a biological incubation experimentation instrument, which adopts microcomputer automatic control system, programmable control mode, and intermitting cooling.

Through setting the multiple parameters, it is able to mimic a natural environment. It has illumination, temperature –constant, day and night shift automatically functioning.  It is able to meet various biological incubation tests.  

Our incubator is able to apply to various areas such as seed germinate & breeding, plant group foster and planting, animalcule incubation, breeding of insects and small animals, anti-oxidation experiment of medicines and environmental experiments of articles; and it is especially applicable for the study of Bioengineering, Medical study, agricultural, Aquatic, Animal husbandry etc.