Seed Certification Manual - Rural Solutions SA - SA.Gov.au

South Australian 

Seed Certification Scheme 

Procedures and Standards 

Manual 

May 2002 

ISSN 1039-8791 

ISBN 0 7308 4333 5

South Australian Seed Certification Scheme 

Published and Distributed by: 

Seed Services, PIRSA 

Plant Research Centre 

Hartley Grove 

Urrbrae SA 5064 

Copyright © 2002 

by Seed Services, PIRSA 

Authors 

Peter Smith, Manager, Seed Services 

Lyn Baxter, Project Officer, Seed Services 

Procedures and Standards for Seed Certification 

May 2002


Contents 

1. INTRODUCTION 

2. DEFINITIONS 

3. SEED PRODUCTION 

3.1 Getting started 

3.1.1 Eligibility 

3.1.2 Registered area number 

3.1.3 Farm plan 

3.2 Applying for field inspection 

services 

3.2.1 Application form 

3.2.2 New growers 

3.2.3 Existing growers 

3.2.4 Existing perennial crops 

3.2.5 Some exceptions 

3.2.6 Proprietary cultivars 

3.2.7 Late application 

3.2.8 Notice of withdrawal 

3.3 Selecting a suitable paddock 

3.3.1 Match the paddock to the seed 

crop 

3.4 Sowing 

3.4.1 Cultivar eligibility 

3.4.2 Sowing seed 

3.4.3 Machinery cleandown 

3.4.4 Pre-Basic and Basic seed 

3.4.5 Over-sowing perennial crops 

3.4.6 Forward sowing seed labels 

3.5 Seed crop inspections 

3.5.1 Seedling inspection 

3.5.2 Pre-harvest inspection 

3.5.3 Registration inspection 

3.5.4 Isolation 

3.5.5 Weeds in crops 

3.5.6 Diseases in crops 

3.5.7 Accepted seed crops 

3.5.8 Rejected seed crops 

3.6 Harvesting certified seed 


3.6.2 Machinery cleandown 

3.6.3 Storing seed on farm 

3.7 Transporting certified seed 

3.7.1 Keep seed identified 

4. SEED PROCESSING 

4.0 Seed processors 

4.1 Seed delivery 

4.2 Storing unprocessed seed 

4.3 Machine cleandown 

4.4 Sampling & uniformity 

4.5 Packaging and labelling 

4.6 Declaration by seed processor 

4.7 Storing seed until official release 

4.8 Reprocessing seed 

4.9 Preliminary certification of bulk seed 

4.10 Blend lines 

4.11 Releasing seed as bulk 

4.12 Rebagging seed 

4.13 Provisionally rejected seed 

4.14 Outright rejected seed 

4.15 Pre-Basic and Basic seed 

4.16 Mobile seed grading equipment 

5. TESTING AND RELEASE 

5.1 Laboratory analysis 

5.2 Application of National Standards 

5.3 Certificate of analysis 

5.4 Adhesive labels 

5.5 Online enquiries 

6. VERIFICATION ACTIVITIES 

6.1 Grow-on testing 

6.2 Testing of stock seed (pre-control) 

6.3 Testing of certified seed (post control) 

7. CONTACT DIRECTORY 

8. INDIVIDUAL CROP STANDARDS FOR 

PASTURE SPECIES 

9. INDIVIDUAL CROP STANDARDS FOR 

FIELD CROP & OTHER SPECIES 

10. APPENDICES 


May 2002


PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS FOR THE 

S.A. SEED CERTIFICATION SCHEME 

1. INTRODUCTION 

Primary Industries & Resources South Australia (PIRSA) Seed Services operates an official seed 

certification scheme based on the Rules and Directives of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation 

and Development (OECD) Seed Schemes and the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA). The 

S.A. Seed Certification Scheme is provided by PIRSA on a voluntary basis, as there are no 

parliamentary acts or regulations governing its operation. Service fees applied by PIRSA are based on 

full cost recovery and user pays principles; and are reviewed annually. Published fee schedules are 

available from Seed Services or may be viewed or printed from Seed Services’ website at 

www.pir.sa.gov.au/seeds. 

The S.A. Seed Certification Scheme aims at providing the consumer with seed of high varietal or 

genetic purity but gives no guarantee of this other than to certify that an acceptable procedure, based 

on internationally recognised standards and accreditation protocols, have been followed to achieve 

this goal. 

The seed certification process ensures that the genetic identity of a plant cultivar is maintained during 

multiplication so that plants grown from certified seed can be expected to look and perform in the 

way the breeder originally described. This means users of certified seed can be confident that their 

business will benefit from the expected advantages of a cultivar. Important genetic characteristics 

include: 

• seedling vigour 

• insect resistance 

• disease resistance 

• cold season productivity 

• high seed yield 

• non seed shattering 

• specific grain or seed qualities 

To provide consumers with seed of acceptable physical quality, the S.A. Seed Certification Scheme 

also applies minimum national seed physical standards - as determined by industry. Physical quality 

standards relate to: 

• physical purity (that is, the amount of pure seed compared to broken or cracked seed, chaff, 

straw, dirt, sticks or stones) 

• germination capacity 

• other crop seeds 

• weed seeds 

Seed certified by PIRSA under the umbrella of the OECD Seed Schemes is eligible to compete globally 

for seed sales to OECD and EU countries. These markets currently consume some 50% of the 

certified seed produced in South Australia. 


May 2002


2. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS 

Accreditation 

Protocol which recognises the competence of persons to 

whom certain official activities may be delegated. 

Accredited inspector 

An individual officially accredited for the purpose of 

inspecting specified crop types for OECD certification. 

Accredited seed processor 

The individual or seed processing operation recognised by 

Seed Services to process and sample seed for the SA Seed 

Certification Scheme 

Applicant 

Seed Grower or Seed Company representative with 

responsibility to apply for seed certification services. 

Authorised sampler 

Person authorised by the seed processor to sample seed 

for certification. 

Authorised Certified (AC) seed 

Certified seed, usually of C1 class, which in the absence of 

basic seed the Certification Authority authorises as a 

suitable sowing seed line on the basis of genetic purity. Also 

refer to Limited Generation Seed Scheme. 

Basic seed 

Derived from areas sown with Pre-Basic seed and produced 

under the co-responsibility of the breeder and the 

certification authority. 

Breeders seed 

The nucleus material grown by the plant breeder. 

Certified First Generation seed (C1) 

Derived from areas sown with Basic seed. 

Certified Second Generation seed (C2) 

Derived from areas sown with Basic seed or Certified 1st 

generation seed authorised for re-sowing. 

Designated Authority 

Authority designated by, and responsible to, the 

government of a participating country for the purpose of 

implementing the rules of the OECD Seed Schemes on its 

behalf. 

EU 

European Union 

ISTA 

International Seed Testing Association 

Limited Generation Seed Scheme 

Seed Scheme applying to the production of 

indistinguishable cultivars of subterranean clover, annual 

medics and other annual Trifolium (clover) species where 

cultivar purity is assured by limiting the number of 

generations produced from Basic seed or Authorised 

Certified (AC) sowing seed. 

Non-Pedigree crops 

Cultivars which are visually identifiable from other cultivars 

of the same species due to unique and/or highly 

distinguishable markings or characteristics. 

OECD 

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development 

Off-types 

Plants within a cultivar which display a minor variation in 

one or more characteristics from that documented in the 

registered description of the cultivar eg minor differences 

in plant height, flowering time or leaf, flower or stem 

markings. 

Pedigree crops 

Cultivars which are visually indistinguishable from other 

cultivars of the same species. 

Pre-Basic seed 

Seed grown from areas sown with breeders seed and 

produced under the supervision of the breeder and/or the 

certification authority. 

Seedgrower’s Declaration 

Official document produced for all crops that pass field 

inspection standards and which is used to notify the Seed 

Processor that the seed being delivered is of the one 

cultivar and certification class. 

Seed line 

A homogeneous (uniform) quantity of processed seed 

identified by a unique reference number and not exceeding 

the maximum lot size as specified by ISTA. 

Seed lot 

(with reference to S.A. certified seed) 

Total lot of unprocessed seed (or processed seed stored in 

bulk prior to final bagging) from registered paddock(s) as 

specified on the Seedgrower’s Declaration. 

Seed Services 

A business unit of Primary Industries & Resources SA with 

responsibility to conduct a Seed Certification Scheme, Seed 

Testing Laboratory and seeds regulatory function. 

Seed Certification Officer 

Person employed and trained by Primary Industries & 

Resources SA to conduct various operational aspects of the 

S.A. Seed Certification Scheme; including field inspections, 

seed sampling and advisory and audit functions. 

SPM 

Seed Processors’ Manual or “Procedure Manual for 

Processors of Certified Seed”. A controlled document which 

details the procedures by which accredited seed processors 

are to handle, process and store certified seed. 

Maintainer 

Person or organisation responsible for the breeding and 

maintenance of a cultivar. 


May 2002


3. SEED PRODUCTION 

3.1 Getting started 

3.1.1 Eligibility 

Any person may apply for the registration of an area for the production of certified seed. Seed 

Services, however, may refuse an application where a crop is considered not reasonably 

accessible eg absentee owner/locked gates, or where inspection hygiene is compromised by 

other prohibited weeds growing on the property, or where excessive travelling is required. 

Application for certification services is voluntary but applicants agree to abide by all Rules and 

conditions governing certification and pay all fees in a timely manner. Services to applicants 

who have accounts more than 90 days in arrears will be withdrawn; other restrictions may 

also apply. 

3.1.2 Registered Area Number 

Each property producing certified seed is allocated a Registered Area Number that is unique to 

the property. This number stays with the property even if ownership changes. 

3.1.3 Farm Plan 

Applicants must provide a farm plan (minimum A4 size) showing all paddocks, fence lines and 

gates. Each paddock should be identified by a letter. Landmarks such as windmills, trees, 

native vegetation areas, powerlines and major adjoining roads should also be included. 

Changes to farm plans should be forwarded to Seed Services when applying for the next field 

inspection service. 

3.2 Applying for field inspection services 

3.2.1 Certified Seed Crop Application form 

Apply to enter a crop into the certification scheme by completing and submitting a Certified 

Seed Crop Application form. This form should be used for all crop species (annuals or 

perennials) whether: 

° establishing a new crop 

° re-sowing an existing crop, or 

° allowing an existing crop to regenerate. 

Lodging this application form will ensure that all necessary inspections required for certification 

are conducted. 

Do not use this form to apply for existing perennial crops (see 3.2.4). 

Applying for field inspection services is the responsibility of the applicant. However, during 

autumn each year application forms are mailed to all growers who have had any crop certified 

in the previous two years. 

3.2.2 New growers 

For new growers, application forms are available from Seed Services or can be printed from 

the web at www.pir.sa.gov.au/seeds. New growers (anyone who has not grown certified 

seed in the last five years) need to apply at least 3 weeks before sowing any crop. 


May 2002


3.2.3 Existing certified seed growers 

Existing certified seed growers (who are familiar with the rules) must apply no later than three 

(3) weeks after sowing, or within three (3) weeks of emergence for regenerated crops. 

3.2.4 Existing perennial crops 

Growers with perennial crops will be sent an application form listing all existing crops and new 

season sowings eligible for a pre-harvest inspection. This will be mailed out in early October 

for perennial clovers and grasses, and during November for lucerne. 

3.2.5 Some exceptions: Clare, Mt. Barker, Woogenellup and Hykon clovers 

Applications for these cultivars should be made on the Certified Seed Crop Application form 

before 30 September. 

3.2.6 Application for Certification of Proprietary Cultivars 

Applications for certification of proprietary cultivars will only be accepted from applicants who 

hold a contract agreement with the cultivar owner or licensee. 

3.2.7 Late application 

Late applications will incur a late fee and will only be accepted if inspections have not been 

completed in the district concerned. 

3.2.8 Notice of withdrawal 

Once a crop is entered into the Certification Scheme it is automatically scheduled for 

inspection. To withdraw a crop from certification, applicants must advise Seed Services in 

writing. If this advice is not received prior to the day of inspection a penalty fee (equivalent to 

the late application fee) will apply unless other crop inspections for the applicant are scheduled 

for that day. Any inspections conducted will be charged at the applicable fee per hectare. 

3.3 Selecting a suitable paddock 

3.3.1 Match the paddock to the seed crop 

Refer to the individual Crop Standards for the species intended to be grown. Ensure that the 

paddock can meet the criteria described in the previous paddock history and isolation sections. 

For areas intended to produce Pre-Basic or Basic seed of a pasture species cultivar - check 

with Seed Services for the applicable previous paddock history requirement and whether any 

unsown strip requirement also applies. In general, previous paddock history requirements are 

usually one to two calendar years greater than those applying for crops producing certified 

classes of seed. 

Consider potential weed hazards. Production areas showing evidence of prohibited weeds, 

particularly those which produce seeds which will be difficult to separate from the crop seed 

intended to be grown, should be excluded to avoid the likelihood of later crop rejection at the 

pre harvest inspection. 

3.4 Sowing 

3.4.1 Cultivars Eligible for Certification 

Subject to the availability of authentic sowing seed and written approval from the maintainer; 

the following categories of cultivars are acceptable for certification by the S.A. Seed 

Certification Scheme: 


May 2002


° All forage, oilseed or field crop cultivars registered through a recognised registration process 

(including the Australian Plant Breeders Rights Office). Cultivars not bred in Australia must 

be registered in a comparable manner and have a morphological description in English 

available. 

° All herbage, oilseed or field crop cultivars published in the official OECD cultivar list. For 

OECD certification of overseas bred cultivars permission of the certifying authority in the 

country of origin is also required. 

° All new herbage, oilseed or field crop cultivars (or breeding lines) that can satisfy the 

acceptance requirements as specified in the “Conditions for the acceptance of Plant and 

Crop cultivars into the South Australian Seed Certification Scheme” (see Appendix 10.1). 

3.4.2 Sowing Seed 

Refer to the individual Crop Standards to check the correct sowing seed for the crop to be 

grown. In general the following applies: 

Pedigree crops: Breeder’s or Pre-Basic seed must be sown to produce Basic seed. For 

crops producing certified class seed - Basic seed must be used where available - 

otherwise Seed Services (dependent on the species involved) may approve a suitable 

line of First Generation (C1) certified seed or Authorised Certified (AC) seed. 

Non-pedigree crops: The use of certified seed is not mandatory, but growers are 

strongly recommended to use certified seed nominated by Seed Services as the best 

available for genetic purity. 

3.4.3 Cleandown all machinery 

Sowing machinery, and related seed transfer equipment, must be cleaned to ensure there is 

no risk of contamination to the sowing seed or the seed crop. 

A Seed Certification Officer may inspect machinery prior to sowing: 

• for crops sown to produce Pre-Basic or Basic seed 

• for growers new to the certification scheme 

• as an audit check on any grower participating in the certification scheme 

3.4.4 Sowing Pre-Basic and Basic Seed 

Notify Seed Services at least five (5) days before the sowing of any crop intended to produce 

Pre-Basic or Basic seed. In some cases crop sowing may be supervised by a Seed 

Certification Officer. 

3.4.5 Over-sowing perennial crops 

Over-sowing of perennial crops – with the exception of cv Hunter River lucerne - is not 

permitted with seed of the same or a similar species except: 

(i) where a seedling crop has failed to establish, follow-up sowing is permitted up to and 

including the season after the establishment year. 

(ii) where the area of sowing is both limited and defined and there are no existing mature 

plants of the same species in the area. 

Contact Seed Services for approval to re-sow or over-sow an existing perennial crop; including 

cv Hunter River lucerne seed crops. 

Note: No approval is required when over-sowing lucerne seed crops with cereals. 


May 2002


3.4.6 Forward labels from sowing seed to Seed Services 

Forward sowing seed labels to Seed Services within 21 days of sowing. The labels should be 

bundled together and identified by cultivar name, line number and date of sowing. 

Where the number of sowing labels per crop exceeds twenty, the applicant need only send 

the highest and lowest numbered labels – provided all label numbers of the seed sown are 

advised in writing to Seed Services. 

3.5 Seed crop inspections 

3.5.1 Seedling inspection 

Submitting the Certified Seed Crop Application form ensures that all necessary crop 

inspections are conducted, including a seedling inspection if required. 

In general: 

° cereals, canola and pulses will not require a seedling inspection 

° new forage/pasture/vetch crops will require a seedling inspection 

° resown or regenerating annual legume crops may require a seedling inspection, depending 

on crop history. 

Refer to the individual Crop Standards for more information about the requirement for a 

seedling inspection. 

3.5.2 Pre-harvest inspection 

All seed crops require a pre-harvest inspection. The pre-harvest inspection for most crop types 

is conducted during the flowering period. For some wheat cultivars, where chaff colour is an 

important identification characteristic, inspections may be delayed until this period. 

If varietal purity cannot be accurately assessed because the crop is: 

• severely lodged, diseased or herbicide affected, 

• obscured by a cover crop or weeds, or 

• stunted or poorly grown, 

the crop may be rejected from certification. 

Applicants receive a copy of all inspection reports conducted on their property. 

For proprietary cultivars, where requested, inspection reports will also be provided to the 

cultivar owner or licensee. 

The field inspector assesses the following during the pre-harvest inspection: 

• genetic purity 

- numbers of off-types 

- numbers of other cultivars 

- presence of seedheads from volunteer seedlings 

- number of other crop species 

• isolation 

• presence of weeds (including on check banks, channels and fence lines) 

• presence of disease 

• plant density 

• potential crop yield 

Refer to the individual Crop Standards for more information about standards for each species. 


May 2002


3.5.3 Registration Inspection 

Perennial crops are inspected each year (whether the crop is to be harvested for certified seed 

or not) to ensure that cultivar purity will not be affected by either crop thinning (plant deaths) 

or thickening due to over-sowing or self seeding. Registration inspections occur at the same 

time of the season as pre–harvest inspections. 

3.5.4 Isolation 

All crops grown in the S.A. Seed Certification Scheme must be isolated from other crops of the 

same species by a minimum prescribed distance. Refer to the individual Crop Standards for 

the applicable isolation distance. 

The major factor determining the isolation distance for a crop is its method of pollination ie 

wind-borne or insect pollinated. Therefore, the isolation distance will vary depending upon 

paddock size, the class of seed and the species being grown. 

For isolation distances between different classes of the same species contact Seed Services. 

For wind-borne pollinated species (eg. most perennial grasses) any part of the crop growing 

within the minimum prescribed isolation distance (ie the isolation zone) must be cut for hay 

or kept mown during the flowering period. 

For insect pollinated species (eg. lucerne, plus most annual and perennial clovers) the 

isolation zone must either be treated in the above manner or it may be left and harvested as 

uncertified seed provided: 

• the uncertified area of the crop is clearly pegged or defined 

• the uncertified area of the crop is harvested last 

Please note that the Certification Office may require the applicant to provide full details and 

evidence of any uncertified seed harvested from an isolation zone. Failure to provide this 

information in a timely manner may result in all seed lines grown from the crop being 

withheld from final certification or rejected. Seed Services retains the right to make inquiries 

of any other third parties in verifying the production of uncertified seed. 

3.5.5 Weeds in Crops 

Crops or production fields containing prohibited weeds (as specified in current schedules of the 

Animal and Plant Control Act 1986) will be rejected from certification. Growers may apply for 

a re-inspection where a weed kill has been successful or the offending plants have been 

removed. See 3.5.8. 

An exception to this rule may apply where there is no risk of the processed seed line being 

contaminated by the prohibited weed seed under consideration. 

Note: 

• Prohibited plants rogued by the grower must be removed from the production area. 

• Crops containing excessive numbers of any weed may be rejected from certification. 

Prohibited weeds are listed in Appendix 10.2. 


May 2002


3.5.6 Diseases in Crops 

Crops affected by certain seed borne diseases may be rejected from certification. Refer to the 

individual Crop Standards for more information about disease standards. 

3.5.7 Crops accepted for certification 

When a seed crop is accepted for certification the applicant is sent: 

• a copy of the field inspection report 

• a Seedgrower’s Declaration 

• unprocessed seed tags for that crop 

The unprocessed seed tags are to accompany and identify each load of seed delivered to the 

seed processor. The Seedgrower’s Declaration should accompany the first delivery. Only seed 

described on the Declaration can be delivered; that is, no bulking together of seed from any 

other paddocks or certification classes is permitted. 

3.5.8 Crops rejected from certification 

If the cause of crop rejection can be corrected, the applicant may apply for a re-inspection of 

the crop, for which full inspection fees will apply plus travelling costs at the standard 

government rate. Re-inspections of rejected crops are only possible if they do not conflict with 

the remainder of the planned inspection program. 

3.6 Harvesting certified seed 


Seed Services must be notified at least five (5) working days before harvesting any crops 

eligible to produce Pre-Basic or Basic seed. A Seed Certification officer may arrange to 

inspect harvesting machinery, storage containers and seed transfer equipment prior to 

harvest. 

3.6.2 Ensure machinery is clean 

Clean and check harvesting machinery and related seed transfer equipment to be sure that 

there is no risk of contamination to the seed being harvested. 

3.6.3 Storing unprocessed certified seed on farm 

Identify all certified seed with the appropriate unprocessed seed tag before it leaves the 

paddock. Similarly identify all on-farm silos and storage containers. 

3.6.4 Separate harvesting and storage of seed to meet EU requirements or other 

quality objectives 

Crops of the same cultivar and class from different paddocks are usually grouped together on 

the one Seedgrower's Declaration form. If there is a need to keep the seed from one or more 

of these paddocks separate for certification or marketing purposes, the seed must be 

harvested and stored separately, and the paddock letter(s) clearly identified on the 

unprocessed seed tags. This will mean altering the paddock letter(s) information already 

printed on the unprocessed seed tags. 


May 2002


3.7 Transporting certified seed 

3.7.1 Keep seed identified at all times 

Identify each load of certified seed delivered to the seed processor with an unprocessed seed 

tag. Make sure that the Seedgrower’s Declaration form accompanies the first load of seed 

delivered to the seed processor. 

Where unprocessed seed tags have been altered to identify that seed from particular paddocks 

has been harvested and stored separately, bring this to the attention of the seed processor so 

that this may be documented and forwarded to Seed Services. 


May 2002


4. SEED PROCESSING 

4.0 Seed processors 

Only seed processors with a current accreditation agreement with PIRSA Seed Services are 

eligible to process certified seed. 

Accredited seed processors agree to follow the procedures and standards as documented in the 

Procedure Manual for Processors of Certified Seed, and are audited annually to ensure 

compliance. Procedures for seed processing are described briefly in this section and are cross 

referenced to the more detailed procedures in the Procedure Manual (SPM). 

4.1 Seed delivery 

The first load of any seed lot must be accompanied by the relevant Seedgrower’s Declaration. 

Each load of certified seed must be identified by an unprocessed seed tag. 

Refer: SPM 4.1 

4.2 Storing unprocessed seed 

Unprocessed seed must be stored in clean, numbered storage containers. A permanent record 

of these storage containers and their contents (ie identity of the unprocessed seed lot) must be 

kept at all times for audit purposes. 


4.3 Machine cleandown 

Processors must document their procedure for cleaning machinery to prevent seed 

contamination. Records must show that this procedure was followed before processing certified 

seed. 


4.4 Sampling and uniformity 

Seed lines must be processed to achieve uniformity from the start to finish of each line. Each 

line must be sampled according to documented procedures by an authorised seed sampler. 


4.5 Packaging and labelling 

Certified seed must be packaged using new bags in the standard way, with the appropriate 

certification label. All bags in a seed line must be of the same capacity. Only OECD listed 

cultivars are eligible for OECD labelling; non-listed cultivars will be tagged with domestic labels. 

Field crop cultivars, irrespective of OECD listing, will be tagged with domestic labels unless prior 

arrangements are made with Seed Services. 


4.6 Declaration by seed processor 

For each line of processed seed, a Seed Processor’s Declaration must be completed by the seed 

processor. The Seed Processor’s Declaration and the Seedgrower’s Declaration must be 

submitted with the official certification sample. 



May 2002


4.7 Storing seed under bond until official release 

Seed must remain at the seed processor’s premises until the seed is officially released, that is, 

when the official seed certification analytical certificate is issued. 

Where access to Seeds Online is available, seed is officially released when the completed result 

for that line shows as Accepted. 


4.8 Reprocessing seed 

Seed may be reprocessed and a new official sample submitted for certification except in the 

case of seed rejected due to the presence of prohibited weed seeds, where approval to 

reprocess must be given by Seed Services. 


SPM 5.7 

4.9 Preliminary certification of bulk seed 

Processed seed from more than one Seedgrower’s Declaration may be stored in bulk prior to 

bagging off and final certification. A preliminary certificate of analysis will be issued for each 

bulk seed lot which will state ‘Preliminary Result - Certification Not Final’. This analysis result 

should be regarded as indicative of the quality of the bulk lot only, and may differ from the 

official certification analysis result issued on the final bagged seed line. 


4.10 Submitting blend lines for certification 

Processed seed of the same cultivar and class may be blended and submitted for certification. 


4.11 Releasing seed as bulk 

Only field crop seed is eligible to be sold in bulk lots. Certain records are required to be kept for 

each sale of bulk seed. 


4.12 Rebagging seed 

Where less than 20 bags in a seed line are being rebagged, the original labels may be reused 

with the application of an official reseal sticker. Where more than 20 bags per seed line are 

being rebagged, new labels must be used. 


4.13 Provisionally rejected seed 

Seed lines that are provisionally rejected from certification pending an improvement in 

germination capacity may be re-sampled and submitted for retest. It is recommended that new 

samples not be submitted until at least six (6) weeks after the provisional rejection notice is 

issued. 


4.14 Outright Rejected Seed 

Seed that is rejected from certification may be sold as uncertified seed with the top section of 

the certification label removed and stickers placed over the pre-printed certification labels, 

except where the seed line contains prohibited seed. 


May 2002


Seed containing prohibited seed cannot be sold, and is subject to the provisions of the Animal 

and Plant Control Act, 1986. 

Seed rejected from certification may be reprocessed and a new sample submitted for 

certification except in the case of seed rejected due to the presence of prohibited seeds, where 

approval to reprocess must be given by Seed Services. 


4.15 Pre-Basic and Basic seed 

Seed Services must be contacted prior to processing. A documented machine cleandown 

procedure is required to be followed and signed off. 

Ref. SPM 5.8 

4.16 Use of Mobile Seed Grading Equipment 

Processors using mobile seed grading equipment follow the same procedures as accredited 

processors using a fixed plant. 

Ref. SPM 5.9 


May 2002


5. TESTING AND RELEASE OF CERTIFIED SEED 

5.1 Laboratory analysis 

The official sample (drawn during seed processing) is submitted to the South Australian Seed 

Testing Laboratory for analysis. The analysis determines the physical purity and germination 

potential of the sample. This information can then be used to make reliable inferences about 

the physical quality of the seed line. The results are shown on the certificate of analysis. 

5.1.1 Purity analysis 

The purity analysis determines the composition of the sample by percentage weight. The 

components measured are: 

• pure seed is the seed of species being certified, or found to predominate in the test. 

• other seeds are seeds of any plant species, other than pure seed. 

• inert matter is all material not included in pure seed or other seeds. 

5.1.2 Prohibited and Declared seeds 

Under State legislation, seed lots containing Prohibited seeds cannot be sold. Under the S.A. 

Seed Certification Scheme, seed lots containing Prohibited seeds will be rejected from 

certification. 

Seeds proclaimed as Declared under the S.A. Seed Certification Scheme may be present in 

certified seed, subject to National Seed Quality Standards, but the vendor must declare the 

number of Declared seeds per unit mass on the label. 

Prohibited and Declared weed seeds for South Australian certified seed are listed in Appendix 

10.2. 

5.1.3 Germination analysis 

The germination test measures the emergence and development of a seedling to a stage where 

the essential structures show it’s ability to develop into a healthy plant under favourable field 

conditions. Germination results are shown as percentages of: 

• normal seedlings are seedlings capable of continued development into normal healthy 

plants given favourable growing conditions. 

• hard seeds are seeds which remain hard at the end of a test period because they have not 

absorbed water. 

• fresh seeds are seeds which absorb water and swell but fail to germinate within the 

permitted test period. Fresh seeds have the potential to develop into a normal seedling but 

this cannot be presumed. 

• abnormal seedlings are seedlings which germinate, but exhibit some physical deformity or 

irregularity which prevents normal development. 

5.2 Application of National Standards 

For certified classes of seed, final certification (ie acceptance or rejection) is dependent on the 

seed line meeting the applicable National Seed Quality Standards. 

For Pre-Basic or Basic classes of seed, final certification is assessed on the basis of the seed line 

meeting the recommended seed physical standards as determined by the Australian Seeds 

Committee; however Seed Services may choose to consider other issues in determining the 

final certification status of the seed line. 


May 2002


5.3 Certificate of analysis 

Following the completion of seed testing and the application of seed physical standards, an 

official seed certification analysis certificate is forwarded to the grower/proprietary owner and 

the seed processor. 

5.4 Adhesive labels 

Adhesive labels displaying seed physical information is produced for all seed lines certified as 

Pre-Basic or Basic seed. 

Adhesive labels are produced only for those lines of certified class seed which: 

• pass seed quality standards - but do not meet one or more of the standards appearing on 

the pre-printed certified seed label, or 

• the seed line contains Declared weed seeds 

5.5 Seeds Online 

5.5.1 Access to test results 

Clients that have a direct interest in a particular test result may apply to Seed Services for 

authority to access their test results via the internet. There is also public access to certain test 

result information where the line number and cultivar name is known. For more information 

about the Seeds Online service visit the Seed Services website at www.pir.sa.gov.au/seeds. 

5.5.2 Test results available to the public 

Test results for certified sample are available to the public if: 

° the sample was accepted for certification 

° the owner of the test result has allowed public access 

The owner of the test result is: 

° the proprietary seed company in the case of proprietary cultivars 

° the seed grower in the case of public cultivars 

Access to these test results is only through entry of the full line number and cultivar name. 

5.5.3 Changing availability of test results to the public 

The owner (see 5.5.2) of the test result can change public access so that the result is not 

available to the public. This can be done by the owner via the internet at the Seeds Online site, 

or by contacting Seed Services. 


May 2002


6. VERIFICATION ACTIVITIES 

6.1 Grow-on testing 

At the certification inspection a seed crop (usually a subterranean clover or annual medic 

cultivar) may be considered marginal for cultivar purity. The Seed Certification Officer may 

accept the crop subject to a grow-on test. 

If the grow-on test indicates excess cultivar contamination (ie greater than 5% in the above 

examples) the seed line is rejected from certification. 

In some cases a crop may be accepted in the field with cultivar contamination of less than 5%, 

but the subsequent laboratory analysis may reveal additional cultivar contamination (eg black 

subclover seed in a white seeded cultivar). 

Where cultivar contamination detected in the field added to cultivar contamination detected by 

analysis exceeds 5%, the crop will be rejected from certification. Where this figure is between 

5% and 10%, a grow-on test may be requested at the Applicant’s cost. 

Note: Grow-on test results may take between 3 to 5 months to finalise from time of sample 

receipt depending on the cultivar and varietal contaminants involved. 

6.2 Testing of Stock Seed (Pre-Control) 

To check that Breeders, Pre-Basic and Basic seed lots are true to type and that the 

maintenance of the cultivar over a period of years has not led to any "shift" in expression of it’s 

distinguishing characters. Objective measurements of individual plants are made in comparison 

with plants derived from authentic seed. 

6.3 Testing of Certified Seed (Post Control) 

Conducted post certification on a proportion of finally certified seed lines these tests check that 

certified seed lots are true to cultivar name and not mixed with other varieties or otherwise 

contaminated during harvest or seed processing. Post control tests are primarily conducted as 

an audit check on the overall seed certification process and its ability to ensure high standards 

of varietal purity are maintained. 


May 2002


7. CONTACT DIRECTORY 

Seed Certification staff may be contacted by telephone, fax, post or by using the general Seed 

Services’ e-mail address. Office visits by prior arrangement are welcomed. 

For information on the following topic areas, contact the person indicated: 

Seed Certification policy, fees, rules and 

grievances, accredited inspectors: 

Seed Certification certificates and test results, 

requests for labels and other consumables, 

invoice enquiries, online services: 

Payment enquiries: 

Crop inspections (North), crop standards, label 

advice, OIC sampling: 

Crop inspections (South East), post controls, 

OIC sampling: 

Manager, Seed Services 

Urrbrae 

Administration Officer, Seeds 

Urrbrae 

Accounts Officer, PIRSA 

Grenfell Centre 

Ph: (08) 8226 0295 

Senior Seed Production 

Agronomist, Urrbrae 

If out of office, try 

Mobile: 0428 813097 

Senior Seed Certification Officer 

Struan 

If out of office, try 

Mobile: 0427 857779 

For general information about the S.A. Seed Certification Scheme, S.A. Seed Testing 

Laboratory or other services offered by Seed Services visit our website at 

www.pir.sa.gov.au/seeds. 

Urrbrae Office Ph: (08) 8303 9549 Fax: (08) 8303 9508 

email: pirsa.seeds@saugov.sa.gov.au 

Postal address: 

Location: 

Seed Services Centre 

Primary Industries & Resources SA 

GPO Box 1671 

Adelaide S.A. 5001 

Plant Research Centre 

Hartley Grove 

Urrbrae (opposite Waite Institute Campus) 

Struan Office Ph: (08) 8762 9131 Fax: (08) 8764 7477 

Postal address: 

Seed Services - Struan 

Primary Industries & Resources SA 

P.O. Box 618 

Naracoorte S.A. 5271 


May 2002


8.0 INDIVIDUAL CROP STANDARDS FOR 

PASTURE SPECIES 

Species 

8.1 Annual medic – Distinguishable cultivars 

8.2 Annual medic – Indistinguishable cultivars 

8.3 Annual Ryegrass 

8.4 Arrowleaf clover 

8.5 Balansa clover 

8.6 Berseem clover 

8.7 Biserrula 

8.8 Cocksfoot 

8.9 Crimson clover 

8.10 Gland clover 

8.11 Lucerne 

8.12 Persian clover 

8.13 Phalaris 

8.14 Red clover 

8.15 Rose clover 

8.16 Serradella 

8.17 Strawberry clover 

8.18 Subterranean clover – Distinguishable cultivars 

8.19 Subterranean clover – Indistinguishable cultivars 

8.20 Tall fescue 

8.21 Tall wheat grass 

8.22 Vetch 

8.23 White clover 

Note: 

All individual Crop Standards are to be read in conjunction with the general rules and procedures 


Paddock History: 

Unless otherwise stated previous paddock history requirements apply to crops producing certified 

classes of seed only. For paddock history requirements of higher classes of seed contact Seed 

Services (Refer to 3.3.1). 

Crop Standards 

al 

These standards apply at the pre harvest inspection only. 

Seed Quality Standards: 

These standards apply to certified classes of seed only. For standards applying to higher classes 

of seed contact Seed Services (Refer to 5.2). 


May 2002


8.1 ANNUAL MEDIC (Medicago sp) 

- DISTINGUISHABLE CULTIVARS 

Cultivars eligible 

Jemalong barrel medic. 

Sowing Seed 

No specific class of sowing seed is required; however 

the use of a seed line approved by Seed Services is 

recommended. 

Paddock History 

Land should not have grown or been sown to any 

other cultivar of barrel medic in the previous four (4) 

years (unless it was the same cultivar) as the crop is 

likely to be rejected due to excess contamination by 

other cultivars. 

Isolation 

Production areas must be separated from other 

cultivars of annual medic by at least a three (3) metre 

strip (free of annual medic plants) or a physical barrier 

such as a fence to prevent any mixture of seed during 

harvest. 

Inspections 

Pre-harvest inspection 

Classes 

C2 only 


Cultivar Purity: 

Certified 95.0% (minimum) 

Seed Quality Standards 

Minimum Pure Seed (% by mass) 98.0% 

Minimum Germination (% by count) 

70.0% (excluding hard seeds) 

Maximum Other Seeds (% by mass) 

2.0% of which no single species (other than burr medic) shall be 

greater than 0.5%. 


May 2002


8.2 ANNUAL MEDIC (Medicago sp) 

- INDISTINGUISHABLE CULTIVARS 


All cultivars of annual medic species except Jemalong 

barrel medic. 


Basic seed. 

AC1 seed (min. 99% cultivar purity), or 

AC2 seed (min. 98% cultivar purity) which has been 

produced on the same property. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to annual 

medic in the previous three (3) years. Successive 

crops of the same cultivar and certification class may 

be grown on the same area without any time interval 

provided satisfactory varietal purity is maintained. 

Unsown strip 

New sowings require an unsown strip of land to be left 

in the crop. The unsown strip must be at least one (1) 

metre in width and form a complete circuit of the 

paddock approximately one third of the way into the 

crop. The location of the unsown strip may be varied 

where the paddock is irregular in shape, divided by 

contour banks or the ground undulates. 

The unsown strip may not be treated in any way which 

prevents the growth of naturally occurring seedlings. 

Failure to leave an unsown strip or the unauthorised 

treatment of the strip may make the crop ineligible for 


There is no requirement to maintain the unsown strip 

in the years following the initial sowing. 

Isolation 


cultivars of annual medic by at least a three (3) metre 

strip (free of annual medic plants) or a physical barrier 


harvest. 

Inspections 

Seedling inspection 


Number of successive harvests 

A maximum of four harvests of certified seed is 

permitted from Basic seed (or crops established with 

AC seed). The number of generations may be 

extended where the crop is likely to continue to meet 

certification standards. Certification on this basis may 

require an electrophoretic test, at the grower’s cost (in 

addition to ordinary certification fees), to determine 

cultivar purity. 

Classes 

C1: from new areas sown with Basic seed 

C2: from crops produced in the second or 

subsequent years via self seeding or by over-sowing 

with Basic or Authorised Certified (AC) seed 



Basic 99.5% (minimum) 







2.0% of which no single species (other than burr medic) shall be 

greater than 0.5%. 


May 2002


8.3 ANNUAL RYEGRASS (Lolium rigidum) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to any 

Lolium species in the previous two (2) years; unless 

the paddock produced Basic class seed of the same 

cultivar in the preceding season - in which case 

production of one further generation of certified class 

seed may be permitted. 

Unsown Strip 

New sowings require an unsown strip of land to be 

left in the crop. The unsown strip must be at least one 

(1) metre in width and form a complete circuit of the 










Isolation 

For areas larger than 2 ha: 

Basic: 100 metres from other cultivars 

Certified: 50 metres from other cultivars 

For areas of 2 hectares or less, double the isolation 

distances. 

Inspections 



Classes 



Cultivar and Species purity: 

Maximum allowed in: 

Contaminant Basic Certified 

Other off-types or cultivars of Lolium rigidum 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Plants of other Lolium species, the seeds of which are 

difficult to distinguish in a laboratory test or which will 

readily cross-pollinate with the crop being grown for seed 1 per 50 m² 1 per 10 m² 



Minimum Germination (% by count) 75.0% 

Maximum Other Seeds (% by mass) 1.0% 


May 2002


8.4 ARROWLEAF CLOVER (Trifolium vesiculosum) 


Basic seed (see Classes). 


Land must not have grown or been sown to arrowleaf 

clover in the previous three (3) years. Successive 




Unsown strip 

An unsown strip of land at least one (1) metre in width 

must be left in all new sowings where the area has 

grown any arrowleaf clover in the previous three (3) 

years; unless it was the same cultivar and certification 

class. 

The unsown strip must form a complete circuit of the 










Isolation 




For areas of 2 hectares or less double the isolation 

distances. 

Inspections 




A maximum of three (3) harvests of certified seed is 

permitted from Basic seed – provided satisfactory 

varietal purity is maintained. 

Classes 


C2: from crops produced in the second year via self 

seeding or by over-sowing with Basic or C1 seed 





Other off-types or cultivars of arrowleaf clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Plants of other species, the seeds of which are difficult 

to distinguish in a laboratory test or which will readily 

cross-pollinate with the crop being grown for seed 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 







May 2002


8.5 BALANSA CLOVER (Trifolium balansae) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to balansa 





Unsown strip 



grown any balansa clover in the previous five (5) 


class. 











Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 




A maximum of four (4) harvests of certified seed is 



Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of balansa clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 










May 2002


8.6 BERSEEM CLOVER (Trifolium alexandrinum) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to berseem 





Unsown strip 



grown any berseem clover in the previous three (3) 


class. 











Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 







Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of berseem clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 










May 2002


8.7 BISERRULA (Biserrula pelecinus) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to biserrula 

in the previous two (2) years. Successive crops of the 

same cultivar and certification class may be grown on 

the same area without any time interval provided 

satisfactory varietal purity is maintained. 

Inspections 



Classes 

C1: from areas sown with Basic seed 

Isolation 


cultivars of biserrula by a three (3) metre strip (free of 

biserrula plants) or a physical barrier such as a fence 

to prevent any mixture of seed during harvest. 










May 2002


8.8 COCKSFOOT (Dactylis glomerata) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to cocksfoot 

in the previous two (2) years; unless it was the same 

cultivar and certification class where a minimum one 

(1) year break between crops is recommended to meet 

varietal purity standards. 

New crops at the seedling inspection containing 

mature or volunteer cocksfoot plants will be rejected 

from certification. 

Isolation 




Inspections 



Registration inspection (Refer to 3.5.3) 

Stand Life 

Basic: 

Certified: 

three (3) years (maximum) 

seven (7) years (maximum) 

Where Basic stands are down-graded, a further four 

(4) years production of certified class seed is 

permitted. 

Crops that have thinned out significantly from the 

previous year will be rejected. 

Classes 



distances. 





Other off-types or cultivars of cocksfoot 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Seed produced from regenerated seedlings in 

the second and subsequent years (max.) nil ≤ 15% 








3.0% of which no more than 1.0% shall be seeds other than Lolium 

sp. 


May 2002


8.9 CRIMSON CLOVER (Trifolium incarnatum) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to crimson 





Unsown strip 



grown any crimson clover in the previous three (3) 


class. 











Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 




A maximum of two (2) harvests of certified seed is 

permitted from basic seed. 

Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of crimson clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 










May 2002


8.10 GLAND CLOVER (Trifolium glanduliferum) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to gland 





Unsown strip 

An unsown strip of land of at least one (1) metre in 

width must be left in all new sowings where the area 

has grown any gland clover in the previous three (3) 


class. 











Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections Required 




A maximum of three (3) harvests of certified seed is 



Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of gland clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 










May 2002


8.11 LUCERNE (Medicago sativa) 



Hunter River: Basic seed or Authorised Certified (AC) 

seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to lucerne in 

the previous three (3) seasons; unless it was the same 


(1) year break between crops is required. For EU 

eligibility a three (3) calendar year break is required. 


mature or volunteer lucerne plants will be rejected from 


Isolation 





distances. 

For crops producing certified class seed a minimum 

isolation distance of three (3) metres, or a physical 

barrier (eg fence line, channel or check bank), is 

permitted if the area of crop growing within the 50 

metre isolation zone (ie the first 50 metres of crop 

growing adjacent to another lucerne cultivar 

along a common border) represents no more than 

10% of the crop to be certified. 

For more information about applying isolation 

standards in lucerne, including the 10% rule, refer to 

Appendix 10.3. 

Inspections 




Stand Life 

Basic: three (3) years (maximum) 

Certified: 

Proprietary cultivars: as prescribed by the 

breeder/maintainer but not exceeding six (6) years 

unless otherwise authorised. 

Public cultivars: six (6) years except for cv’s Hunter 

River and Hunterfield where no stand life limit 

applies for crops producing certified class seed. 

Where Basic stands are down-graded, certified seed 

may be harvested for the remaining production years 

within the stand life limit. 



Classes 


C2: from areas sown with Authorised Certified (AC) 

seed 





Other off-types or cultivars of lucerne 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 












May 2002


8.12 PERSIAN CLOVER (Trifolium resupinatum) 



Field History 

Land must not have grown or been sown to persian 





Unsown strip 



grown any persian clover in the previous five (5) years; 

unless it was the same cultivar and certification class. 











Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 







Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of persian clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 






Minimum Germination (% by count) 65.0% (except for cv Kyambro which is 50.0%) 

(excluding hard seeds) 



May 2002


8.13 PHALARIS (Phalaris aquatica) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to phalaris in 

the previous two (2) years; unless it was the same 





mature or volunteer phalaris plants will be rejected 


Isolation 




Inspections 




Stand Life 

Basic: 

Certified: 


ten (10) years (maximum) 


may be produced for a further seven (7) years. 



Classes 



distances. 





Other off-types or cultivars of Phalaris aquatica 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 











May 2002


8.14 RED CLOVER (Trifolium pratense) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to red clover 

in the previous three (3) years; unless it was the same 





mature or volunteer red clover plants will be rejected 


Isolation 




Inspections 




Stand Life 

Basic: 

Certified: 

two (2) years (maximum) 

four (4) years (maximum) 


may be produced for a further two (2) years. 



Classes 



distances. 





Other off-types or cultivars of red clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 












May 2002


8.15 ROSE CLOVER (Trifolium hirtum) 



Hykon 




recommended. 


Land should not have grown or been sown to rose 

clover in the previous three (3) years unless it was the 

same cultivar. 

Isolation 


cultivars of rose clover by at least a three (3) metre 

strip (free of rose clover plants) or a physical barrier 


harvest. 

Inspections 


Classes 

C2 only 



Certified 

95.0% (minimum) 







May 2002


8.16 SERRADELLA (Ornithopus sp) 

This standard applies to both pink and yellow 

serradella. 


Basic seed or Authorised Certified (AC) seed 

approved by Seed Services. 



serradella species in the previous three (3) years. 

Successive crops of the same cultivar and certification 

class may be grown on the same area without any 

time interval provided satisfactory varietal purity is 

maintained. 

Isolation 


species and/or cultivars of serradella by at least a 

three (3) metre strip (free of serradella plants) or a 

physical barrier such as a fence to prevent any mixture 

of seed during harvest. 

Inspections 



Classes 

C1: from new areas sown with Basic seed. 


seeding or by over-sowing with Basic or C1 seed. 







Minimum Germination (% by count) 75.0% (including hard seeds) 



May 2002


8.17 STRAWBERRY CLOVER (Trifolium fragiferum) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to strawberry 

clover in the previous three (3) years; unless it was the 

same cultivar and certification class where a minimum 

one (1) year break between crops is recommended to 

meet varietal purity standards. 


mature or volunteer strawberry clover plants will be 

rejected from certification. 

Unsown strip 



grown any strawberry clover in the previous five (5) 


class. 











Isolation 

For fields larger than 2 hectares: 



For fields of 2 hectares or less, double the isolation 

distances. 

Inspections 




Stand Life 

No stand life limit applies for cv. O’Connors and Palestine 

grown within the County of Grey (Millicent/Mt Gambier 

districts) 

For all cultivars of strawberry clover grown outside 

of this region - the following applies: 

Basic: three (3) years (maximum) 

Certified: six (6) years (maximum) 


may be produced for a further three (3) years. 



Classes 






Other off-types or cultivars of strawberry clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 












May 2002


8.18 SUBTERRANEAN CLOVER (Trifolium subterranean) 



Clare, Mt Barker and Woogenellup. 




recommended. 


Land should not have grown or been sown to 

subterranean clover in the previous three (3) years 

(unless it was the same cultivar) as the crop is likely to 

be rejected due to excess contamination by other 

cultivars. 

Isolation 


cultivars of subterranean clover by at least a three (3) 

metre strip (free of subterranean clover plants) or a 



Inspections 


Classes 

C2 only 






Minimum Germination (% by count) 70.0% excluding hard seeds) 



May 2002


8.19 SUBTERRANEAN CLOVER (Trifolium subterranean) 

- INDISTINGUISHABLE CULTIVARS 


All cultivars of subterranean clover except Clare, Mt 

Barker and Woogenellup. 


Basic seed. 

AC1 seed (min. 99% cultivar purity), or 

AC2 seed (min. 98% cultivar purity) which has been 

produced on the same property. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to 

subterranean clover in the previous three (3) years. 


class may be grown on the same area without any 

time interval provided satisfactory varietal purity is 

maintained. 

Unsown strip 

New sowings require an unsown strip of land to be left 

in the crop. The unsown strip must be at least one (1) 

metre in width and form a complete circuit of the 










There is no requirement to maintain the unsown strip 

in the years following the initial sowing. 

Isolation 


cultivars of subterranean clover by at least a three (3) 

metre strip (free of subterranean clover plants) or a 



Inspections 




A maximum of four harvests of certified seed is 

permitted from Basic seed (or crops established with 

AC seed). The number of generations may be 

extended where the crop is likely to continue to meet 

certification standards. Certification on this basis may 

require an electrophoretic test, at the grower’s cost (in 

addition to ordinary certification fees), to determine 

cultivar purity. 

Classes 




with Basic or Authorised Certified (AC) seed 











May 2002


8.20 TALL FESCUE (Festuca arundinacea) 


Basic seed. 


Inspections 




Land must not have grown or been sown to tall fescue 

in the previous two (2) years, unless it was the same 




Stand Life 

Basic: 

Certified: 

two (2) years (maximum) 

five (5) years (maximum) 


mature or volunteer tall fescue plants will be rejected 


Isolation 

For areas larger than 2 hectares: 



Where Basic stands are down-graded certified seed 

may be produced for a further three (3) years. 



Classes 



distances. 





Other off-types or cultivars of tall fescue 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 









Maximum Other Seeds (% by mass) 3.0% of which no more than 1.0% shall be seeds other than Lolium 

sp. 


May 2002


8.21 TALL WHEAT GRASS (Agropyron elongatum) 


Basic seed. 


Inspections 




Land must not have grown or been sown to tall wheat 

grass in the previous two (2) years; unless it was the 




Stand Life 

Basic: 

Certified: 


seven (7) years (maximum) 


mature or volunteer tall wheat grass plants will be 

rejected from certification. 

Isolation 





distances. 

Where Basic stands are down-graded, a further four 


permitted. 



Classes 






Other off-types or cultivars of tall wheat grass 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 











May 2002


8.22 VETCH (all species) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to any 

cultivar or species of vetch (including wild species of 

vetch and/or tares) in the previous three (3) years; 


Unsown Strip 

An unsown strip must be left in all new sowings where 

any species or cultivar of vetch has been grown in the 

previous five (5) years; unless it was the same cultivar 

and certification class. 

The unsown strip must be at least one (1) metre in 

width and form a complete circuit of the paddock 

approximately one third of the way into the paddock. 

The location of the unsown strip may be varied where 

the paddock is irregular in shape, divided by contour 

banks or the ground undulates. 

The unsown strip may not be treated to prevent the 

growth of naturally occurring seedlings. Failure to 

leave an unsown strip or unauthorised treatment of the 

strip may make the crop ineligible for certification. 

Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 




A maximum of two (2) harvests of certified seed is 

permitted from Basic seed. 

Classes 




with Basic or C1 seed 





Other off-types or cultivars of the vetch species certified 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Plants of other vetch species, the seeds of which are 







Maximum Other Seeds (number per kg) 15 (including nominated seeds) 

Nominated seeds: maximum levels for acceptance 

other pulses (no./kg) 1 

wild oats (no./kg) 3 

ryegrass & phalaris (total no./kg) 5 


May 2002


8.23 WHITE CLOVER (Trifolium repens) 


Basic seed. 


Land must not have grown or been sown to white 

clover in the previous three (3) years; unless it was the 





mature or volunteer white clover plants will be rejected 


Unsown strip 



grown any white clover in the previous five (5) years; 












Isolation 





distances. 

Inspections 




Stand Life 

Basic: two (2) years (maximum) 

Certified: four (4) years (maximum) 

Where Basic stands are down-graded, a further two 


permitted. 



Classes 






Other off-types or cultivars of white clover 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 












May 2002


9.0 INDIVIDUAL CROP STANDARDS FOR 

FIELD CROP AND OTHER SPECIES 

Species 

9.1 Cereals 

• wheat 

• barley 

• oats 

• triticale 

9.2 Pulses 

• broad beans 

• faba beans 

• field peas 

• chickpeas 

• lentils 

• lupins 

9.3 Canola 

9.4 Linseed & Linola 

9.5 Fodder Radish 

9.6 Onions 

Note: 

All individual Crop Standards are to be read in conjunction with the general rules and procedures 


Paddock History: 

Unless otherwise stated previous paddock history requirements apply to crops producing certified 

classes of seed only. For paddock history requirements of higher classes of seed contact Seed 

Services (Refer to 3.3.1). 


These standards apply at the pre harvest inspection only. 

Seed Quality Standards: 

These standards apply to certified classes of seed only. For standards applying to higher classes 

of seed contact Seed Services (Refer to 5.2). 


May 2002


9.1 CEREALS 

The following standards apply for wheat, 

barley, oats and triticale. 




Basic & Certified seed: 

Land must not have grown or been sown to: 

• a cereal of the same species in the previous two (2) 

years 

• any cereal species in the previous one (1) year; 


Isolation 

With the exception of triticale - production areas must 

be separated from other cereals by at least a two (2) 

metre strip (free of any cereal plants) or a physical 

barrier such as a fence to prevent any mixture of seed 

during harvest. 

Triticale (mainly self-pollinating cultivars) 

Basic: 

Certified: 

50 metres from other cultivars 


Triticale (cross-pollinating cultivars) 

Basic: 

Certified: 

Inspections 


Classes 



C1: from crops sown with Basic seed 

C2: from crops sown with C1 seed 





Other off-types or cultivars of the cereal species certified 

For wheat, barley, oats & 

triticale (mainly self-pollinating cultivars) 1:1000 3:1000 

For triticale (cross-pollinating cultivars) 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Other cereals (inseparable*) in the above species nil 1:2000 

* Inseparable other cereals shall include crop plants, the seed of which cannot be thoroughly removed by the usual methods of 

seed processing from the crop seed being grown. For example, barley in wheat or vice versa or wheat and barley in oats, etc. 


Minimum pure seed (% by mass) 98% 

Minimum germination (% by count) 85% 

Maximum other seeds (number per kg) 

15 (including nominated seeds) 


other cereal species (no./kg) 1 

other pulses (no./kg) 3 



vetch - all species (no./kg) 3 


May 2002


9.2 PULSES 

The following standards apply for broad 

beans, faba beans, field peas, chickpeas, 

lentils and lupins. 




Basic seed: 


• a pulse crop of the same species in the previous 

three (3) years 

• any pulse crop in the previous one (1) year; 


Certified seed: 


• a pulse crop of the same species in the previous 

two (2) years 

• any pulse crop in the previous one (1) year; 


Isolation 

Field beans and broad beans: 



Yellow (L. luteus) & White (L. albus) lupins: 



Field peas, chickpeas, lentils and 

Narrow-leaf (L. angustifolius) lupins: 

Basic and Certified: 

Inspections 


Classes 








Other off-types or cultivars of the pulse species certified 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Plants of other pulse species, the seeds of which are difficult 



Diseases: 

Lupin crops detected with Anthracnose will be rejected from certification. For crops grown in South Australia - 

disease presence will be notified to the Chief Quarantine Inspector, Primary Industries & Resources SA. 


May 2002


9.2 PULSES (continued) 







other pulse species (no./kg) 1 

other cereals (no./kg) 2 



vetch - all species (no./kg) 1 

Seed Pathology Tests and Standards 

The testing of lupin seed for CMV (Cucumber Mosaic Virus) is a requirement of seed certification. Certified seed 

containing CMV is not rejected from certification, however the disease level is reported on the official certificate of 

analysis. Pre-Basic or Basic class lupin seed containing CMV will be rejected from certification. 

The cost of seed pathology testing is additional to ordinary seed certification fees. 


May 2002


9.3 CANOLA (non-hybrid cultivars) 




Isolation 

Basic: 

200 metres from other cultivars or any 

other brassica or cruciferous crop or 

weed species 

Basic seed: 

Land must not have grown or been sown to canola or 

any other brassica or cruciferous crop species for the 

previous five (5) years, unless it was the same cultivar 

and certification class. 

Certified seed: 

Land must not have grown or been sown to canola or 

any other brassica or cruciferous crop species for the 

previous three (3) years, unless it was the same 


Land used for all classes of certified seed production 

must be free from volunteer contaminating plants at 

the time of sowing. 

Certified: 

Inspections 

100 metres from other cultivars or any 

other brassica or cruciferous crop or 

weed species 

Pre-harvest inspection (mid-flowering) 

Classes 







Other off-types or cultivars of canola 1:1000 3:1000 

Other brassica or cruciferous 

species eg mustard 

(B. juncea, B. hirta, S. alba) nil 1:10000 




Maximum other seeds (number per kg) 20 (including nominated seeds) 


other pulse species (no./kg) 

other cereals (no./kg) 

wild oats (no./kg) 

ryegrass & phalaris (total no./kg) 

vetch - all species (no./kg) 

nil 

nil 

nil 

nil 

nil 


May 2002


9.4 LINSEED & LINOLA (Linum usitatissimum) 




Land must not have grown or been sown to linseed, 

linola or flax in the previous five (5) years. 


class may be grown on the same field without any time 

interval provided satisfactory varietal purity is 

maintained. 

Isolation 


cultivars of linseed, linola or flax by at least a five (5) 

metre strip (free of linseed plants) or a physical barrier 


harvest. 

Inspections 


Classes 







Other off-types or cultivars of linseed 1:1000 3:1000 










other cereals (no./kg) 2 

other pulse species (no./kg) 1 



vetch - all species (no./kg) 

nil 


May 2002


9.5 FODDER RADISH (Raphanus sativus) 

The following Crop Standards apply also to 

mustard, kale, swede and turnip seed crops 

although some variations may apply to 

particular species. For further information on 

Crop and Seed Quality Standards for these 

species contact Seed Services. 


Basic seed. 

Isolation 

Areas of fodder radish must be isolated from any other 

cultivar of radish or other closely related crops of 

Brassica spp, mustard or canola by the following 

distances: 

Basic: 

Certified: 

400 metres 

200 metres 


distances. 



radish spp (including wild radish) or other closely 

related crops of Brassica spp, mustard or canola for 

the previous five (5) years, unless it was the same 


Inspections 



Classes 






Other off-types or cultivars of Raphanus sativus 1 per 30 m² 1 per 10 m² 

Plants of other similar species, the seeds of which are 






Maximum Other Seeds (% by mass) 1.0% of which no single species shall be greater than 0.5%. 

For export to EU countries the following additional Other Seeds standards apply: 

max. wild radish 0.3% 

max. Sinapis arvensis 0.3% 

max. Rumex spp 

20 seeds/400 gm 

Avena fatua, Avena ludo and Avena sterilis nil 


May 2002


9.6 ONIONS (Allium cepa) 

Sowing Seed - Planting Stock 

Only seed or bulbs authorised by Seed 

Services. 

Isolation 

Basic: 

1000 metres from any flowering crop 

of onions or other Allium species. 

For crops producing certified class seed, sown 

from bulbs, approximately 2% of bulbs must be 

inspected before planting to which the 

following standards apply: 

Doubles and bottlenecks: nil 

Maximum other colours: 0.1% 

Maximum off-types: 0.2% 

Planting bulbs must be uniform in size, shape 

and colour (within the range accepted as 

typical of the cultivar) and sound in vigour. 

Bulbs should also be free of diseases and/or 

insect infestation. 


Land must not have grown onions or similar 

species in the previous two (2) years. 

Certified: 

Inspections 

600 metres from any flowering crop 

of onions or other Allium species. 

Pre-planting inspection (including an inspection of the 

planting bulbs) 


Classes 

C2 only 


Cultivar purity: 

Basic 

Certified 



All off-type plants within the crop must be removed before flowering. 

Crops deformed by insects or disease will be rejected. 




Maximum Other Seeds (% by mass) 3/80g


10. APPENDICES 

10.1 CONDITIONS FOR THE ACCEPTANCE OF PLANT AND CROP 

CULTIVARS INTO THE S.A. SEED CERTIFICATION SCHEME 

For a cultivar to be eligible for certification in the S.A. Seed Certification Scheme the following criteria must be satisfied 

(it is responsibility of the Applicant [if different from the breeder/maintainer] to ensure any information requested of the 

breeder is provided): 

1. Names 

Name of cultivar 

Common name of species 

Botanical name of species 

Name and address of maintainer 

Name and address of maintainer's agent (if other than the maintainer). 

2. Registration 

Documented evidence that the cultivar has been registered through a recognised registration process (this 

includes registration through the Australian Plant Breeders Rights Office). Cultivars not bred in Australia must 

be registered in a comparable manner and have a published description in English available. 

Non-registered breeding lines may be accepted for the production of Pre-Basic and/or Basic seed in the 

S.A. Seed Certification Scheme provided the seed is produced under the responsibility of the breeder in 

consultation with the Certification Authority. The breeder must provide an assurance in writing that the 

breeding line will be submitted for registration. 

Certification to First and/or Second Generation class certified seed is only permitted for registered cultivars. 

3. Morphological Description 

A comprehensive morphological description of the cultivar is required. Comparative information with other 

cultivars of the same species currently in use should be provided. A Plant Breeders Rights registration 

description alone is usually not considered sufficiently comprehensive. Applicants will be advised if it is 

necessary to provide additional morphological information. 

4. Uniformity and Stability 

Evidence must be provided of the uniformity and stability of the cultivar having regard to the species 

concerned and the breeding systems used. An acceptable way of providing this evidence would be to 

indicate the period over which the generations of seed multiplication have been observed as being uniform 

and stable. If off-types are present in the cultivar it is a requirement to state the frequency in which they occur 

and supply a description of them. 

5. Maintainer’s approval 

A written statement from the maintainer/breeder to the Manager, S.A. Seed Certification Scheme giving 

approval to certify the cultivar must accompany the application. 

In this statement the maintainer/breeder must: 

(i) 

(ii) 

authenticate the seed supplied to commence the certification process (with reference to a line or lot 

number). This seed must be appropriately labelled denoting its generation (eg Pre-Basic or Basic) 

and sealed to prevent contamination. 

advise the maximum number of harvests permitted from the crop or in the case of self-pollinated 

annual species, the number of generations.


(iii) 

(iv) 

advise of any special field or laboratory standards needed (eg ultra-violet light fluorescence) to 

assist in determining cultivar purity. 

give an assurance that authentic seed of the cultivar is being maintained and by whom. 

If seed of the cultivar supplied for sowing has not been registered the breeder in addition to (i) and (ii) 

above must provide information on the origin of the seed to be sown including detailing the breeding history 

of the cultivar. 

6. Authentic seed sample 

A sample of seed of the cultivar authenticated by the breeder (usually Breeders or Pre-Basic seed) must be 

supplied for use by the Scheme as a control for determining cultivar purity through pre and post control 

evaluation or electrophoretic testing. 

Minimum sample sizes: 

Subterranean & rose clover 

Other clovers & lucerne 

Grasses 

Oilseeds 

Field crop species 

Other species 

200g 

100g 

200g 

200g 

1000g 

Advised on application 

Note: seed must be a minimum of 85% germination (including hard seed) when supplied. 

7. Overseas Cultivars 

a. Cultivars for multiplication and re-export will be accepted for certification provided the following 

requirements are met: 

(i) 

(ii) 

An authority from the overseas breeder to multiply the cultivar in South Australia must be 

supplied giving specific instructions as to the class of seed to be produced and the number of 

generations allowed. 

If the cultivar has been described overseas the description must accompany the application. 

(iii) If the cultivar is to be certified under the OECD Scheme a letter from the Designated Authority in 

the country of origin agreeing to the multiplication must be made available to the S.A. Seed 

Certification Scheme. 

b. Cultivars for listing and further marketing in South Australia: 

(i) 

An authority as in a(i) above. 

(ii) The overseas description of the cultivar must accompany the initial application. A further 

description of the cultivar based on South Australian growing conditions must be supplied 

after the first growing season.


10.2 PROHIBITED AND DECLARED WEEDS IN THE 

S.A. SEED CERTIFICATION SCHEME 

PROHIBITED 

African daisy 

African rue 

African feathergrass 

African lovegrass 

African boxthorn 

Alkali sida 

Alligator weed 

Arrowhead 

Azzarola 

Ball mustard 

Bathurst burr 

Bifora 

Blackberry 

Black bindweed 

Bladder campion 

Boneseed 

Bridal creeper 

Broom rapes 

Bubil watsonia 

Buchan weed 

Californian burr 

Calomba Daisy 

Caltrop 

Cape tulip 

Cleavers or bedstraw 

Creeping knapweed 

Cutleaf mignonette 

Dodder 

Dog rose 

Elodea or Canadian pondweed 

English broom 

False caper 

Field bindweed 

Field garlic 

Gorse or furze 

Hemlock 

Hoary cress 

Horehound 

Hydrocotyle 

Indian hemp 

Innocent weed 

Johnson grass 

Khaki weed 

Lagarosiphon 

PROHIBITED 

Leafy elodea 

Leafy spurge 

Lincoln weed 

May (Hawthorn) 

Mesquite 

Montpellier or cape broom 

Muskweed 

Nightstock 

Noogoora burr 

Nutgrass 

Onion weed 

Parkinsonia 

Parthenium weed 

Perennial ragweed 

Perennial thistle 

Poison ivy 

Prickly pear 

Ragwort 

Rampion mignonette 

Rhus tree 

Sagittaria 

Salvation Jane 

Salvinia 

Senegal tea plant 

Serrated tussock 

Shore thistle 

Silverleaf nightshade 

Skeleton weed 

Small fruited pheasant's eye 

Soldier thistle 

Soursob 

St. John's wort 

Star of Bethlehem 

Sweetbriar 

Three-corner jack 

Three-cornered garlic 

Variegated thistle 

Vipers bugloss 

Water dropwort 

Water hyacinth 

Wild artichoke 

Wild radish 

Yellow burrweed 

DECLARED 

Buffalo burr 

Bulbous oatgrass 

Burrgrass 

Charlock 

Docks 

Fennel 

Gallon's curse 

Glaucous star thistle 

Italian bugloss 

King Island Melilot 

Mexican poppy 

Mossman river grass 

Poverty weed 

Saffron thistle 

Slender thistle 

Spear thistle 

St Barnaby's thistle 

Star thistle 

Stemless thistle 

Topped lavender 

Wards weed 

Wild mignonette 

Wild turnip


10.3 APPLYING ISOLATION STANDARDS FOR CERTIFIED LUCERNE SEED 

PRODUCTION 

To be eligible for certification, lucerne stands 

must be sufficiently isolated from other crops of 

lucerne to reduce the risk of contamination with 

undesirable pollen. 

The 50 metre rule 

OECD certification requires that: 

• For stands greater that 2 hectares: 

Certified seed crops should be at least 50 metres 

from any other lucerne cultivar. 

Basic seed crops should be at least 100 metres 

from any other lucerne cultivar. 

• For stands smaller than 2 hectares - these 

distances are doubled. 

However, in some instances, the isolation distance 

for crops producing certified classes of seed may be 

as little as three (3) metres by applying the 10% 

isolation rule. The practical application of this rule 

depends in part on the size of the seed paddock and 

the length of the common borders between lucerne 

crops growing in adjacent fields. 

The 10% isolation rule 

For certified stands a minimum isolation distance of 

three (3) metres is permitted provided the area of 

crop growing within the 50 metre isolation zone 

(adjacent to another lucerne cultivar) represents no 

more than 10% of the crop to be certified. 

This figure can be calculated by using the following 

formula: 

Isolation zone (m²)* x 100% 

Paddock size (m²) 

* = length of common borders (m) x 

(50m minus any existing isolation width present) 

Interpreting the 10% rule 

In general - the larger the crop, and the shorter the 

common border, the more likely the 10% rule will 

apply; ie. an isolation distance of three (3) metres 

only between different lucerne cultivars will be 

required. This minimum distance can be further 

reduced provided a physical barrier such as a fence 

line, channel or check bank separates the adjacent 

crop areas. 

What happens to the Isolation Zone? 

An isolation zone must be cut for hay or kept mown 

during the flowering period 

or 

The isolation zone may be left and harvested as 

uncertified seed provided the following procedure is 

followed: 

• The area to be harvested as uncertified seed is 

clearly pegged or defined. 

• If two certified cultivars are growing in adjacent 

paddocks - and the 50 metre rule applies to both 

crops - an area of 50 metres from the common 

border must be pegged out in both cultivars and 

harvested as uncertified seed. 

• Uncertified seed must be harvested last. 

Please note that the Certification Office may require 

the grower to provide full details and evidence of any 

uncertified seed harvested from an isolation zone. 

Failure to provide this information in a timely manner 

may result in all seed lines grown from the crop being 

withheld from final certification or rejected. Seed 

Services retains the right to make inquiries of any 

other third parties in verifying the production of 

uncertified seed. 

Think carefully about where you 

establish a lucerne stand 

Obviously it makes sense to plan where you 

establish lucerne stands with isolation requirements 

in mind - and where applicable consider what 

cultivars your neighbour may be growing in adjacent 

paddocks - as this may help minimise the impact 

isolation zones will have on your certified seed 

production. 

Assistance 

If you require assistance in determining isolation 

distances please contact your nearest Seed 

Certification office or accredited lucerne seed crop 

inspector.

Seed Certification Manual - Rural Solutions SA - SA.Gov.au

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