ISTA workshop in Angers on seed germination and vigour

From 1 to 5 December, 27 participants from 12 countries came to Angers to enhance their expertise in germination and vigour testing.

The aim was to present the principles and biological basis of the tests prescribed by ISTA, to discuss the quality controls required to carry out these tests, with a particular focus on temperature and light for germination tests, and to conduct a number of tests on several species of both vegetable and field crops. The practical work focused in particular on recent developments in these tests within the ISTA rules.

To this end, the two chairwomen of the ISTA technical committees on germination and vigour (Gillian Musgrove and Alison Powell, respectively) led presentations and practical workshops, along with ISTA members from SNES. A tremendous amount of preparation and organisation work was carried out by all colleagues in the germination laboratory, with assistance from the SNES and Head Office secretariats.

The discussions between all participants, speakers and laboratory colleagues were rich and fruitful. They helped identify areas for further improvement, with a view to achieving greater clarity and harmonisation.

French cuisine was also honoured, the weather was mild for the season, and the gala dinner was a great success. So many wonderful memories for everyone.