Sätetest

Sätetest is a term used in seed science to describe a set of procedures for evaluating the germination performance and vigor of seed lots. The word combines the German Saat (seed) and Test (test). In practice, a sätetest involves sowing a defined number of seeds under standardized laboratory conditions and monitoring germination over a defined period to derive quantitative measures of seed quality.

Typical procedures involve preparing replicated samples, using controlled environments such as petri dishes with moist substrate or seed trays with appropriate soil or paper media. Temperature, moisture, and light conditions are specified according to species and testing standards. Outcomes commonly reported from a sätetest include germination rate, mean germination time, and vigor-related indicators, which help compare different lots or assess changes in quality during storage.

Applications of the sätetest include quality control in seed production, certification processes, and research on seed aging, dormancy breaking, and viability. The test is often used alongside other evaluations, such as accelerated aging, cold tests, and vigor tests, to provide a comprehensive view of seed performance. It is particularly important for crops where uniform emergence is critical for yield and establishment.

Limitations include the fact that results from controlled laboratory conditions may not fully predict emergence in field conditions, where environmental stress, soil type, and moisture variability play significant roles. Therefore, a sätetest is generally considered an estimate of potential germination rather than a guarantee of field performance. In international practice, terminology and specific protocols may vary, with standard germination and vigor assessments serving similar purposes.