Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
The composite sample drawn by any of the various techniques may be too large for the submitted
sample and thus should be divided further before submitting to the seed laboratory. Further subdivision of
free-lowing types should be done by a mechanical halving device such as a divider. Absolute care should
be taken at this point to guard against introducing bias into the submitted sample. During the subdividing
process, there may be a tendency to unconsciously remove stones, stems, damaged seeds, or even noxious
weed seeds. However, such deviations from the correct sampling procedure make all subsequent testing
results meaningless.
Mailing the Sample
After the proper sized sample is obtained, it should be carefully labeled and placed into a container suitable
for mailing. Cloth, plastic, or paper bags are acceptable; however, these should be placed inside a breath-
able container suitable for mailing. Each sample should be sealed and labeled as follows: (1) name and
address of owner (or seller), (2) crop kind and variety, (3) date received, (4) tests requested, (5) lot number,
and (6) number and weight of containers (bags) in the lot (Fig. 3.5). If two samples are mailed in one box,
they should be bagged separately to prevent cross-contamination during transportation. If a moisture test is
required, separate samples needed to conduct the test should be packed in moisture-proof containers.
Figure 3.5. A submitted sample should be mailed in a secured, well-sealed, labeled bag that includes name
and address of seed owner, crop kind and variety, tests requested, lot number, and weight of containers (bags)
in the lot (Oregon State University Seed Laboratory).
