In the Labinsky district, specialists from the Center for Agricultural Product Quality Assessment (APK COC) are inspecting domestic barley crops of the “Sanya” variety. While the plants show strong tillering and heading, some areas are beginning to show signs of disease. Experts have recommended a second chemical treatment to protect the seed field.
“For fields up to 50 hectares, we select 10-square-meter plots, examine each one, and record all diseases, weeds, and atypical plants,” explains Irina Tretyakova, lead specialist at the Novorossiysk branch of APK COC.
Maintaining Genetic Purity: Removing “Outlier” Plants
To preserve varietal purity, inspectors remove “outlier” plants—those that grow taller than the rest—preventing cross-contamination and ensuring high-quality seed stock.
Mandatory Seed Certification: A New Requirement for Farmers
Starting this year, Russian farmers can no longer sow seeds without proper documentation. Oleg Krivoshein, a farm owner, confirms: “We now have to invite specialists for field approval and certification.”
This season, inspectors are evaluating three key crops simultaneously—wheat, barley, and soybeans—a first for the region. All seeds intended for sale must undergo this multi-stage verification.
“Farmers can then sell certified seeds with confirmed quality—both in terms of germination and genetic purity,” says Galina Lastovetskaya, another lead specialist at APK COC.
Increased Seed Production Under Strict Quality Control
Inspectors assess over 20 fields daily, ensuring compliance with standards. Last year, Krasnodar Krai boosted seed production for grain and oilseed crops by 25%, thanks in part to rigorous quality checks.
Certification = Higher Market Value & Better Crop Performance
Seed certification is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for profitability and sustainability. With disease pressures rising and market demands increasing, verified, high-quality seeds ensure better yields and higher sales prices. Farmers who adopt these practices early will gain a competitive edge.
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