New seed test could save farmers millions - farmers weekly
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04 June 1998 NEW SEED TEST COULD SAVE FARMERS MILLIONS _BY FWI STAFF_ A TEST which sorts seeds according to their ability to germinate could save farmers millions, claim experts in the
Netherlands. The test measures the ripeness of seeds by assessing chlorophyll content, according to this weeks _New Scientist_. Chlorophyll content dictates seeds germination ability. The
Dutch scientists have discovered that seeds retain their chlorophyll for many years so long as they are kept dry. When seeds become moistened, chlorophyll breaks down and seeds germinate.
The test identifies the optimal chlorophyll levels for ripeness and then sorts the seeds. It is being commercialised by Satake USA, a company based in Houston, Texas.