What factor affects the determination of seed quality in California?

The determination of seed quality in California is significantly influenced by germination rates and purity standards. These two factors are critical as they provide essential information about the viability of the seeds and their physical composition. Germination rates indicate the percentage of seeds that can successfully sprout under ideal conditions, which directly affects planting success and crop yield. Purity standards refer to the levels of seed contamination and ensure that the seed lot contains the correct species and variety, meeting specific regulatory requirements.

These quality evaluations help maintain agricultural integrity and ensure that farmers receive seeds that perform as expected. In contrast, while seed packaging material, price, and storage duration are relevant considerations in the broader context of seed handling and sale, they do not directly measure the intrinsic quality of the seeds themselves. Therefore, focusing on germination rates and purity standards is paramount in assessing and ensuring seed quality in regulatory practices and agricultural settings.