Seed Testing Laboratory
From Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Published on
Last updated on
The department's Seed Testing Laboratory (STL) is part of the Plant Science Division in Backweston. It conducts tests on a wide range of species and is the national seed testing lab providing seed testing and expertise to DAFM control divisions, seed merchants, farmers, growers and forest nurseries.
The species tested include:
The major tests are as follows:
Barley can be tested for Loose Smut. Beans and Peas can be tested for Ascochyta spp. and Botrytis spp.
It is vitally important that submitted samples are representative of the lots from which they are drawn, otherwise calculations based on test result information may be inaccurate and lead to costly errors. In the case of certified seed, trained officers of the Department of Agriculture using specified procedures conduct sampling. Official sample envelopes are supplied by applying to the Laboratory in writing. For privately submitted samples envelopes can be supplied by applying to the Laboratory.
Below are listed some of the more common species tested and the minimum recommended sample weights for submission. As a rough guide a mug full of barley seed weighs approximately 200g.
Minimum recommended sample weights:
Please see Testing Fee section for further information on sample weights
Fill a suitable container with the minimum sample weight, ensuring that the sample is representative of the lot.
The appropriate fee may be forwarded with the sample.
For card payment over the phone, please contact the Laboratory on 01-6157506 / 01-6157518.
An advance arrangement can be made with the laboratory for payment on account.
Official Seed Testing Laboratory Price List Inc. VAT
Official Seed Testing Laboratory Pricelist