Animal health & welfare

Laboratory services

• Germination test
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• Seed Health Tests

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Seed Health Testing

The Seed Testing Laboratory conducts a range of seed health tests, including the following:

General Pathology Test: This test is used to determine the percentage total Fusarium and Microdochium nivale in small grain cereal seeds. It is also used to determine the percentage net blotch/leaf stripe (Pyrenophora teres & Pyrenophora graminea) in barley seed. It can only be carried out on undresssed (untreated) seed.
Loose Smut Embryo Test: This test is used to determine the percentage loose smut (Ustilago nuda) in barley seed. It can be carried out on undressed and dressed seed.
Full Pathology Test (on barley only): This test is a combination of the General Pathology Test and Loose Smut Embryo Test on barley seed only.

Other seed pathology tests: Ascochyta and Botrytis species affecting beans.

Other mycological organisms may also be tested for upon request.

Turn-round times for all seed pathology tests will be approximately 10 working days from the date of receipt.

For details on the cost of tests please see Seed Testing Price List (pdf 35Kb)

When submitting a sample for seed health testing please consider the following:

Sample Size: approx. 500g (allow more if submitting sample for other tests).

Sample container: sample bags may be provided upon request. Alternatively, plastic zip-lock bags may be used.

Sample details: Please specify the test(s) required, species (barley, wheat, oats, etc.), season (Winter/Spring) and variety as this information will appear on your test report.

Payment: a cheque made payable to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food for the cost of the test(s).

Address:

Seed Testing Laboratory,
DAFF Laboratories,
Backweston,
Celbridge,
Co. Kildare,
Ireland.

Tel: +353-1-615 7501
Fax: +353-1-615 7196
E-mail: seedtesting@agriculture.gov.ie