soil-seed-bank

Farmers, agronomists, weed and soil scientists, conservation programs, and others often want to know what kind of seeds may be present in a particular soil to prevent potential problems in today's quality-conscious markets. The soil seed-bank test can effectively identify noxious weed seed or any other seeds in a soil sample.

The soil seed-bank test was developed by the OSU Seed Laboratory. Samples are washed to remove fine clay particles, dried, then screened to separate by particle size. Seeds as small as Juncus (rush) can be retained. All particles are visually inspected by trained analysts using the high-quality microscopic Ergovision system. Seeds are removed and identified. The seeds may then be returned to the customer for follow-up studies or tested in the lab for viability.

Examples of recent tests:

  • Soil samples were submitted to find and identify all species of seeds including invasive species.
  • Soil samples collected from a large number of sites in the Mojave Desert were searched for seeds. Seeds were recovered and returned to customer for follow-up studies.
  • soilSamples were submitted from a residue management program. Seeds were separated, identified, weighed, and the number of each species present was provided to the researcher. Visible nematode galls and ergot were also removed and reported.
  • Compost samples were searched for seeds and foreign material such as glass, plastic, metal, and stones.

Instructions for submitting samples for testing

  • Minimum submitted sample size: 500 grams. Please limit sample size to 400-500 grams (.8-1.0 lbs). Please do not submit soil samples larger than 1.0 lb.
  • Enclose in a moisture-proof container, such as a heavyweight Ziplock bag or plastic container with a tightly fitting lid. Double bag if sample contains sharp material that may puncture a bag.
  • Sample may be dry, damp, or wet according to field conditions. If wet, ship the sample to the lab overnight or the fastest way possible to reduce the risk of seed sprouting in transport.
  • If the sample may be contaminated with a known chemical, please contact the lab first. We can only accept samples that we can safely test in our facility. The lab does not accept samples contaminated with animal or human waste.
  • Please include the following information:
    • Customer name and contact information
    • Lot number or other identifying information
    • Date sampled
    • Tests requested (see below for more information)
    • Any other special instructions
  • Submit sample to the lab as soon as possible after sampling and keep cool and dark to retard germination.

Test Information

  • We report seeds found by kind and number in a 100g subsample of the submitted sample. Results are usually available within one to two weeks, depending on lab testing volume and sample difficulty.
  • If requested, seeds found can be returned to the customer for follow-up studies.
  • Viability can be determined by TZ test on seeds found. Test results are usually available within 24-48 hours after seed retrieval and identification. This test detects if seeds are dead or alive.
  • Germination of some or all of the seeds found can be performed, however, it may take three to six weeks or longer due to dormancy or other conditions. Some seeds may not germinate at all due to age, weathering, or other deterioration.
  • Please see our price list for the current price. This cost does not include viability testing. Additional hourly charges may apply for extremely difficult samples or if a larger sample needs to be searched. Please contact the lab if you have a large quantity of samples for testing.