The factors that determine seed quality are genetic and mechanical purity, germination, and vigor. Maintaining genetic purity during the development of new propagating materials is difficult and becomes increasingly important with continuing advances in molecular genetics.
Physical purity requires the removal of unwanted contaminants from pure seed.
Improvements to minimize mechanical damage are necessary in harvesting and conditioning equipment as well as the development of recommended handling procedures. Seeds inevitably deteriorate during maturation, harvesting, and conditioning. The resulting loss in seed quality decreases stand establishment. Methods to reduce this deterioration must be found. Seed quality tests must also be developed to inform seed consumers and producers when loss in seed quality has occurred.