Seed moisture content (SMC) is commonly expressed as a percentage of the original seed weight. This Herbage Update reports on an experiment comparing different methodologies for determining seed moisture content in perennial ryegrass.
Key points
- Determining seed moisture content is best achieved when temperature is accurately controlled to avoid burning (oxidisation) of seed.
- For seed moisture testing, the depth of seed in the tray should allow for heating and evaporation of seed located on the bottom of the tray.
- Growers should consider the use of automated seed moisture meters to achieve greater accuracy.
- All methods should be calibrated against a trusted oven test.
Read Herbage Update 76: Seed moisture determination of ryegrass seed here