Differences in national and international seed testing rules

Abstract

Differences in the seed testing rules for domestic trade (Regulation on the quality of seeds of agricultural plants Sl. SFRJ 47/1987) and export (International rules for seed testing - ISTA rules) are the reason for the lack of consistency in the seed testing and the interpretation of the obtained results. For certain species, there are even different test methods, which can additionally lead to inconsistent test results of the same seed lot. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to highlight the differences that exist and point out the need to harmonize national and international rules for seed testing. Through this review, the main differences during sampling and the most common methods of seed testing are shown: purity, germination, 1000 seed weight and moisture content. Differences in the quality control of test conditions are also shown, which laboratories that have both, national and international accreditation, must pay attention to. International rules (ISTA) are changed every year, at the initiative of member laboratories, based on new research and experiences from laboratories around the world. Harmonization of national and international rules for seed testing would greatly facilitate work in laboratories and contribute to uniform criteria for seed testing and reporting of test results.