PSR germination tests go beyond initial germination. Seed is planted in a custom artificial soil mix and grown under greenhouse conditions through approximately the three-leaf stage, providing an opportunity to evaluate emergence, seedling vigor, development, and overall stand uniformity.
By allowing seedlings to establish and develop beyond the initial germination stage, the test can reveal weak, delayed, or abnormal seedlings that may be less apparent in conventional germination methods. The result is a practical indication of field emergence potential and early seedling performance.
More Than a Germination Percentage
PSR germination tests include a seedling uniformity rating. Because seedlings are grown through approximately the three-leaf stage, we can assess not only germination, but also differences in emergence, development, vigor, and overall stand uniformity.
The uniformity rating provides an additional measure of seed lot performance that a germination percentage alone may not reveal.