Protocol for rice seed germination tests

Rice seeds are tested for viability using the following protocol:

Prepare sample of healthy looking seeds.  Generally we remove broken and/or discolored seeds and empty hulls or other plant debris.  Usually we count a specific number of seeds, 50 or 100 to aid in calculating percent germination scores.  Place a filter paper inside each petri dish and write or place labels on lid of each dish.  Place seeds into each petri dish.  Gently dampen each sample and allow paper and seeds to absorb water for about an hour.  Add additional water to dish just prior to placing into growth chamber.

Ideally growth chamber is set at 30 degrees C, programmed for 12 hours of daylight.  Each day you should add a little more water to each dish, but do not over-water as this can cause seeds to drown and sour.  Seeds should germinate within 48 hours.  We score the germination tests after seeds have been in the growth chamber for 36 hours.