seed processing

Seed that has been collected usually requires processing to remove the seed from its pods and/or remove unwanted material such as leaves, sticks, pods, and chaff that has been gathered with the seed. As well as processing our own seed, we also provide this service for material collected by others who may not have the capacity to process it ("friends of" and community groups etc).

Native seed sizes and weights vary enormously, with some species having seeds weighing of the order of tens of grams each, and other species having thousands of seed per gram.

Seeds are processed in a variety of different ways determined by the type of fruit in which they are contained. Careful examination of seed lots is crucial in determining the viability/health of seed lots and if seed is actually present.

Tranen has a hot house and special equipment to facilitate the processing of seeds, and has equipment such as vacuum separators, threshers, mechanical screen cleaners and hand sieves for cost-effective separation of seeds from other unwanted materials.

Seed is cleaned to match appropriate industry purity standards. Where seed is to be used for direct seeding, a lower grade may be preferred to reduce cleaning time and cost.

Many seeds require treatment before sowing to promote germination, and further details of this can be found under "treatment"