Farm Saved Seed – a positive alternative to Certified Seed

Hugh Boswell – Farm Saved Seed Sales Co-ordinator

Cropping plans on many farms have changed dramatically this spring and this in turn has led to supply challenges with preferred varieties of cereals or pulses as Certified Seed. For those who still have spring seed which has not been sold or committed, farm saving seed could be a positive alternative to Certified Seed and a sure way of having seed on farm when you are able to drill.

Choice of spring crops for saving and drilling, if available to your farm business, could be spring varieties of Barley, Wheat and Oats, together with Spring Beans, Linseed, Oilseed rape and Peas.

Before processing any farm seed it would be prudent, after such difficult growing and harvesting conditions, to take a sample to test for standard germination (8- 10 days) or a tetrazolium viability and vigour test – the result of which could be emailed to you within 4 days. If S Beans are to be saved for seed it is essential to conduct a stem nematode test first before continuing with other bean tests. You can request sample bags and type of test required via your usual Agrii contact, who can also advise on the most appropriate and cost effective seed treatment for this Spring.

The Agrii Farm Saved Seed business processes over 30 thousand tonnes of seed a year via our Nationwide fleet of 20 modern, high capacity, self contained mobile units. The machines are operated by qualified, experienced and motivated staff who can help you produce seed on farm to your specification. Farm saving is worth considering in conjunction with Certified Seed – the mobile service provides the same attention to detail and professionalism as our certified seed plants.