We have received some seed samples for seed quality testing. However, the amount we received is relatively low (10-12gm, 1000 seed weight- 3-4gm). We do not have enough information how they were sampled. If it is a composite sample? We want to pursue further, though the outcome might not represent the whole lot.
We are looking for suggestions on methods for representative mass reduction (from what we have). We plan to reduce the mass to 1-2 gm. We would like to try the methods that could be used without any sophisticated equipment.
Manual method of reducing sample size is recommended by ISTA. This may be using alternate hollow grid tray, using spoon or doing it manually to reduce sample size into half. The method depends on seed size and type of test to be carried out. The manual method is also followed for reducing size of soil sample into working sample, where the soil is spread uniformly into a near circle and divided into four equal parts. Each alternate quarter is discarded and the sample size is reduced to half. This is continued till the desirable sample size is obtained. In case of seeds, they are spread in similar way and divided into two halves and one half is discarded. The remaining half is mixed well and again spread into a circle and divided into two equal parts, discarding one part and continue the process with other half till desired working sample size is obtained.
The following link may provide useful information and clues to further information:
https://www.seedtest.org/upload/cms/user/ISTA_Rules_2016_02_sampling1.pdf
Thank you Nilay Borah for the suggestions and sharing the link to the ISTA rules on sampling.
We would like to try as many methods as possible. So, if there are any other methods that could be tested please do share.
Thank you.
Dear Santosh Shrestha
If your sample is a composite sample, mix it well and take a sample of at least 5g by hand as a submitted sample. Then spread this sample as the circle on a table and divide it into four similar parts. Finally, you can take one or two quarters of these seeds as a working sample for laboratory testing.
Best wishes
Kazem Ghassemi-Golezani
Thank you Kazem Ghassemi-Golezani for your suggestion.
We would like to try as many methods as possible. So, if there are any other methods that could be tested please do share.
Thank you.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Agricultural Science
- Horticulture