Germination Rate
Percentage of sown seeds that sprout.
Formula
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Example
92 of 100 sprout: G = 92%
How it works
Germination rate tells you what fraction of the seeds you tested were able to sprout, expressed as a percentage. It works by dividing the number of seeds that germinated by the total number tested, then multiplying by 100 so the result is on a 0–100 scale that is easy to compare. A higher percentage means a larger share of the seed lot is viable and able to begin growth under the test conditions.
When to use it
Use this formula when checking seed quality before planting, such as in a farm trial, garden test, or seed-lot inspection. It is also useful for comparing different seed batches or evaluating how storage, moisture, or temperature affected sprouting success.
Worked example, step by step
Suppose a farmer tests 80 bean seeds and 68 germinate. G = (n_g / n_t) × 100 G = (68 / 80) × 100 G = 0.85 × 100 G = 85% So, the germination rate is 85%.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the number of seeds planted instead of the number actually tested
- Forgetting to multiply by 100, which leaves the answer as a decimal instead of a percentage
- Counting damaged or moldy seeds as germinated even if they have not sprouted
Did You Know?
Farmers test germination before sowing and raise the seed rate to compensate for any shortfall.
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