# Seed Germination Testing

Part of the Plant Science Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/plant-science/guide/index.md)

*8. Option A — Agronomy*

> **8a2.** Make and use a seed germination tester to test 50 seeds of four of the following plants: corn, cotton, alfalfa, soybeans, clover, wheat, rice, rye, or barley. Determine the percentage of live seeds.

A germination test answers a simple question: if you plant these seeds, how many are likely to sprout? Farmers and gardeners do not assume a bag of seed is perfect. They test it so they know how much seed to plant and whether the lot is still worth using.

## A Simple Germination Tester

You can make a basic tester with paper towels, water, and a tray or plastic bag.

**What You'll Need** — A simple home or classroom germination setup

- [ ] Paper towels or coffee filters
- [ ] Water
- [ ] Four labeled containers, trays, or plastic bags
- [ ] 50 seeds each of four different crops from the approved list
- [ ] Pencil and notebook

## How to Run the Test

1. Moisten the paper towel so it is damp, not dripping.
2. Count out 50 seeds of one crop and spread them so they do not overlap.
3. Fold or cover the towel and place it in a labeled bag or tray.
4. Keep the seeds warm and check daily.
5. Count how many seeds germinate normally.
6. Repeat for the other three crops.

A seed counts as **live** when it produces a healthy sprout, not just a cracked seed coat. Weak, moldy, or misshapen seedlings usually do not count as good germination.

## Calculating Percent Live Seed

Use this formula:

**number of healthy sprouts ÷ 50 × 100 = percent live seed**

If 43 of 50 soybean seeds sprout well, then:

**43 ÷ 50 × 100 = 86% live seed**

## Why the Result Matters

A high germination percentage means seed is vigorous and likely to establish an even stand. A lower percentage means you may need more seed to get the same plant population—or the seed may not be worth planting at all.

> **Tip**
>
> Check your test at the same time each day and write down what you see. Your counselor will care about your method as much as your final percentages.

## Official Resources

Video: [How to Do Seed Germination Test (video)](https://youtu.be/MOphmTH-WIA)

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