Quality control (internal) and seed certification (external)
Universities, research institutes and research stations may be good partners in a seed system as producers of pre-basic and basic seed, but for the production of substantial quantities of certified seed special seed producing organizations (SPO 's) are more relevant.
Seed Producing Organizations (SPO 's)
An SPO works with member farmers or with contract growers. Contracts are made with farmers to produce seed under supervision and according to the rules and regulations set by the SPO.
Seed quality is influenced by:
- quality of the seed planted
- conditions of the field where seed is grown - selection of seed plots
- rotation applied on seed plots
- existing weather conditions during the growing season and effects on diseases and pests
- planting and harvest time of the seed
- crop husbandry
- plant protection measures (isolation, roguing, application of chemicals)
- harvest and storage procedures
- sorting and grading
- seed distribution procedures
Proper timing and accurate execution of all required actions is essential
In fact the seed quality is affected throughout the entire production period and post- harvest season.
It is the Seed Producing Organizations that is in a position to influence the quality of the seed throughout this entire season
Seed Quality Control (internal)
The SPO has first responsibility for the seed quality, since this organization has the means to influence quality by means of selection of contract growers, selection of seed lots to be used for multiplication and adequate supervision of the member farmers or the contract growers.
For the SPO, as well as for its member farmers or contract grower, continuity in seed marketing is essential .
To achieve this the organization will have to build up the reputation of being a source of quality seed.
An internal quality control system, within the SPO, with skilled personnel is essential for the production of quality seed.
INTERNAL QUALITY CONTROL
External inspection - Certification
An independent external inspection agency becomes relevant when more than one organization (cooperatives, private firms, research organizations) and the farmers (or seed producers) linked to these organizations are seed producers.
EXTERNAL CERTIFICATION SERVICE