Seed Viability Testing

Seed viability testing encompasses laboratory and practical methods used to assess germination potential and longevity of cannabis seeds before breeding, storage, or cultivation. Common approaches include tetrazolium (TZ) staining, which identifies living tissue through color change, and controlled germination trials that measure actual sprouting rates under standardized conditions. Breeders and seed banks rely on these assessments to evaluate seed lot quality, predict storage outcomes, and make informed decisions about breeding stock selection. Viability data informs decisions about seed preservation protocols, breeding timelines, and genetic inventory management. Understanding seed viability is essential for maintaining genetic libraries and ensuring reliable propagation of established lineages.

Breeders use viability testing to qualify seed lots before committing resources to crosses, ensuring parent material is viable before large-scale breeding programs. Seed banks and preservation projects depend on periodic viability checks to monitor storage conditions and confirm genetic material remains propagatable across years.