In fact, the 1,000-kernel rate of a single variety will vary from year to year and from field to field. Using the 1,000-kernel weight allows a producer to account for these variations when determining seeding rate and calibrating seed drills. It might even save you money, especially with large-seeded crops. Seed quality is important when using the 1,000-kernel weight. Plump, large seed produces the most vigorous plants.
Poor seed produces weak plants.
You should use seed that has had foreign material and shrunken or misshapen kernels removed. To calculate seeding rates and calibrate seed drills, germination tests should be done on all seed lots. A seeding mortality estimate is also needed. Seeding the same amount of seed each year won't mean you always get the same plant population. Barley seed, for instance, can vary 25 percent in size and weight, which can dramatically affect the final plant population.