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Masterclass on Seed Maturity and Seed Quality (ENG)

Discover the Power of Seed Technology
Masterclass on Seed Maturity and Seed Quality

Are you ready to take your knowledge of seed technology to the next level? We invite you to an exclusive workshop in which we will explore in depth some of the most critical aspects of seed quality and seed maturity, including seed maturity itself, measurements of chlorophyll content in the seed coat, and seed vigor through analysis of respiratory characteristics.

In three interactive sessions, organized by Plant Insights in collaboration with the International Seed Academy, we will cover topics that are essential for seed professionals and anyone interested in the science and practical applications of seeds.

Instructor: Johan van Asbrouck, an expert in seed technology and former chairman of the ISTA Innovation Committee, will explain the underlying principles and applications and share his expertise with you. The following themes will be addressed:
Seed Maturity
Seed maturity is of key importance for several crucial seed characteristics: • Developmental stages and seed physiology
• Relationship between maturity and germination, drying capacity, vigor, and storability
• What does chlorophyll measurement reveal about seed quality?
• Storage management:
o Which sub-lots can be mixed
o Which lots should be marketed first

Seed Quality
• General aspects: The importance of genetic and environmental factors
• Germination capacity: What determines successful seed germination and how can it be measured?
• Imbibition/lag phase: The key to understanding the process of water uptake by seeds
• Vigor: How is seed vitality measured and which factors play a role?
• Variation: How is uniformity determined?

Demonstrations
• Seed maturity assessment using chlorophyll fluorescence
• Seed quality assessment using respirometry
• Determination of oxygen concentration during priming
• Determination of the photosynthetic capacity of varieties

Why participate?
This masterclass offers a unique combination of scientific insight and practical guidance with demonstrations, aimed at professionals wishing to deepen their knowledge of seed technology and apply it in practice.
• Gain hands-on experience with advanced techniques.
• Learn from experts in the field and exchange experiences with fellow professionals.
• Receive the manuals: (1) Seed Maturity and (2) Seed Quality – Respirometry.

Programme:
• 12:30–13:00 | Registration and welcome
• 13:00–13:10 | Introduction to the masterclass and particpants
• 13:10–14:25 | Explanation and background of seed maturity
• 14:25–15:30 | Demonstration of techniques / Coffee break
• 15:30–16:45 | Explanation and background of respirometry
• 16:45–17:15 | Closing of the information day and networking reception

Date: ​​21 September 2026
Time: ​​13:00–17:15
Venue: ​Vertify – Tolweg 13, 1681 ND, Zwaagdijk-Oost
Fee: ​​Workshop participation € 380 per person, excluding VAT

We look forward to welcoming you to this dynamic workshop, which will help you improve the quality and performance of your seeds. We hope to see you on this inspiring afternoon. Your presence is greatly appreciated; however, places are limited, so please register in time.

To confirm your participation, please send an email to info@plantinsights.nl.

Kind regards,
Bert van Tol, Plant Insights Foundation
Johan van Asbrouck, International Seed Academy