Seed Sampling and Submitting Procedure

1. Sampling Procedures: Make certain the sample is representative of the entire seed lot.  Improper sampling is the greatest source of error in seed testing.  The Colorado Seed Laboratory takes every precaution to insure accuracy of tests, but the value of the test depends on the extent that the sample represents the seed lot.  Please refer to the "AOSA Rules for Testing Seeds" for the proper procedures for sampling.

To collect a representative sample it may be necessary to gather more seed than needed for a given test.  After collecting the seed thoroughly mix it in the collection container, or pass it through a divider to obtain the necessary amount to submit for testing.  Some suggestions include:

a. Bulk seed:

Hand sample or use a probe so that all areas of the seed lot are represented.  If the seed is in a bin, sample it from the top, center, sides, and bottom.  It might be more appropriate to collect subsamples as the seed is being transferred from a truck or bin.

b. Bagged seed:

For seed lots of one to six bags, sample each bag.  For lots of more than six bags, sample five bags plus 10% of the number of bags in the lot.  Regardless of lot size, it is not necessary to sample more than 30 bags.

Submitting Samples to the CSL

1. Sample containers:

Place samples in a container that will not open during shipping.  A cloth bag lined with a plastic bag is least destructible.  If sending several samples in one container, please package samples so that seed cannot become mixed.  If using plastic bags, consider using two bags as a double wrap for each sample--since plastic bags break open easily.

2. Required Sample Information: (Click here to download a Sample Information Tag)

Please provide the following information for each sample:

a. Name, address, and phone number of sender.

b. Kind, Variety, and Lot Number - This information must be provided before testing
can commence.

Example: Kind- Western Wheatgrass
Variety- Arriba (Use VNS if variety is not stated)
Lot Number- 5Y201

c. Cleaned (conditioned) or Uncleaned.

d. Type of tests desired.

e. Treatment - "yes" or "no". Treated seed must be marked "treated" and the treatment
must be indicated.

f. Indicate crop year grown. This will aid in germination test procedures.

3. Mail samples to:

Colorado Seed Laboratory
Department of Soil & Crop Sciences
Ft. Collins, CO 80523-1170

Telephone: (970) 491-6406
Manager Direct: (970) 491-4379
Fax: (970) 491-1173

E-mail: csl@lamar.colostate.edu