In the case of certified seed, sampling can only be undertaken by official or licensed samplers using approved instrumentation and specified procedures. This ensures that test results obtained from samples are a true representation of the quality of the seed lots from which they were drawn.

For meaningful results samples of seed submitted from farm-saved seed must be representative of the seed lot or bulk from which they are taken. To take a representative sample select a number of small samples from several bags, or from different parts of the bulk. Do not keep seed samples in warm or damp conditions or near agricultural chemicals, solvents or fuel prior to testing. Samples can be posted or delivered in person to the OSTS.

Ken Pearson(Phone 0131-244-8885) can provide you with detailed information on sampling procedures and equipment. Ken will also give you details of sampling courses that are held every autumn.