Inspect the Seed germination and viability by SpeedySeed Viability Kit — A Game-Changer for seed test
Seed viability is a crucial indicator of seed quality, directly influencing germination, seedling establishment, and overall farm productivity. Traditionally, seed viability is measured through germination tests, which take 7–14 days to complete and require labor, space, and controlled environmental conditions. However, with the introduction of the SpeedySeed Viability Kit, a novel and rapid colorimetric method now enables stakeholders to determine seed viability within just 2–4 hours.
This innovative tool is set to revolutionize on-farm seed quality assurance, saving time, enhancing decision-making, and minimizing losses due to poor germination.
Why Seed Viability Testing Matters
Farmers often unknowingly sow non-viable or low-vigor seeds, leading to:
- Poor field emergence
- Uneven crop stand
- Wastage of inputs like fertilizers and water
- Reduced yields
By performing seed test for viability before sowing, farmers can avoid these issues and ensure that only high-quality seeds are planted.
What Is the SpeedySeed Viability Kit?
The SpeedySeed Viability Kit is a rapid, color-based test that differentiates between viable and non-viable seeds based on their carbon dioxide (CO₂) release during respiration. Viable seeds respire actively, releasing more CO₂ than non-viable seeds.
This released CO₂ reacts with an indicator solution in an airtight incubation setup, changing the solution’s color. Based on the observed color, the seed’s viability is determined visually — making it a farmer-friendly and lab-free method.
Scientific Principle Behind the Kit
Viable seeds respire vigorously and release higher amounts of CO₂.
The CO₂ is absorbed into an aqueous indicator solution, leading to a color change.
The extent of color change correlates with the amount of CO₂ released, thus indirectly indicating seed viability.
Color Change Interpretation: Green/Yellow → High viability (viable seeds) While Blue (no change) → Low or no viability (non-viable seeds)
How the Seed Test Is Performed
🔹 Materials Provided in the Kit:
- Indicator solution (for 300 seeds)
- Dropper bottle
- Seed holders
- Airtight transparent incubation tubes (100)
Step-by-Step Procedure:
- Pre-soak seeds in water for 2–4 hours to initiate metabolic activity.
- Place the soaked seeds inside the seed holder.
- Insert the seed holder into the incubation tube.
- Add 250 µL of the indicator solution to the tube.
- Seal the tube airtight to trap the CO₂ released.
- Keep the setup undisturbed at room temperature for 2–4 hours.
- Observe the color change of the indicator solution.
Green or yellow: Indicates active respiration and viability.
No color change (blue): Indicates dead or non-respiring seeds. Details of the seed testing procedure has been demonstrated by Dr. Vishwanath in this video
Benefits to Farmers and Stakeholders
✅ For Farmers:
- Avoid losses due to poor germination
- Use only viable seeds for sowing
- Improve yield and input-use efficiency
✅ For Seed Dealers:
- Ensure quality before selling
- Avoid reputational damage due to non-performing seeds
✅ For Seed Producers:
- Faster quality control during seed production
- Select high-vigor seeds for further multiplication
✅ For Extension Workers/Scientists:
- Demonstrate viability in real time during training
- Aid decision-making in seed replacement programs
The SpeedySeed Viability Kit offers a revolutionary, rapid, and easy-to-use solution for testing seed viability. It empowers farmers and stakeholders with a quick decision-making tool to ensure only high-quality seeds are sown. This innovation aligns with national goals of improving productivity, reducing input waste, and ensuring better returns for farmers.
Investing 2–4 hours in testing with this kit can save weeks of crop loss and ensure a confident start to every sowing season. ICAR recently celebrated 97th foundation day Home
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