Q1. What is SeedClean’s process for cleaning seed?
A1. Our cleaning process begins with an initial examination of unclean bulk seed that arrives at our Sarasota, FL facility.

We test seed using a digital moisture meter to determine if seed requires drying. Drying seed helps prevent impairment of the efficient separation of seed from hulls, chaffs, husks, stems, etc.

Next, we send dry seed through a proprietary four-step cleaning process developed over a decade of working with Native Plants. The process begins with a pre-cleaning of seed to prepare it for its journey through our mechanized and manual equipment. This process is followed by a final examination of seed. We view seed under a high-powered stereomicroscope to identify foreign matter - sand, dirt, mold, organisms and other undesirable material.

Lastly, we vacuum package the finished product and label it. Labels clearly indicate: date, common name, scientific name and weight (lbs/ozs).

Should a customer require, clean seed can be separated based on physical differences such as size, color and shape. This processing, conducted after the mentioned pre-cleaning, may be needed to further improve seed quality. This step is referred to as “upgrading operations” and is often an unnecessary expense for Native Plant growers who commonly hedge against non-germination by using multiple seeds for liner planting.

Q2. Is seed cleaning something I can do myself to reduce costs?
A2. Yes.

However, the initial cost of purchasing equipment necessary for successful cleaning of various Native seed types can easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars.

A processing facility dedicated to housing the specialized equipment is needed along with a dust control system to contain harmful dust particles. Dust from high volume seed cleaning operations can produce flu-like symptoms in people, so special equipment is necessary (e.g. cyclones, dust collection machines, respirators). Regular maintenance of equipment, replacing parts and filters and cleaning the facility is important.

As the often-used saying goes – time is money. There is a significant time commitment needed to learn various, effective seed cleaning methods. Equipment is often tested on a trial and error basis, adapted from other industries such as grain and rice, and often not successful for use with more than one type of Native Plant seed.

Importantly, the learning process results in a good deal of damaged or wasted seed. Often seed is hard to come by. It’s expensive to purchase, if available, and/or takes time to locate and permit sites for harvesting. Many people find they spent a season cleaning seed only to learn the technique used resulted in damaged seed with a low germination rate.

It is our experience that outsourcing this process represents a nominal expense for growers and is a significant time saver. Professional seed cleaning represents a small percentage of the final cost of finished goods. We see great value in the services we offer and hope to have an opportunity to work with you.
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Q3. Do you clean seed for only Florida growers and nurserymen?
A3. No. Most seed can be sent from anywhere in the USA via UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, or larger carriers such as Saia and United. We return boxed, clean seed in vacuum-sealed bags.

Q4. What is the best way to store my seed?
A4. We recommend storing unclean seed in a dry area. Plastic bags (e.g. garbage or lawn bags) are not recommended since they can trap moisture and promote mold growth and rotting. Boxes without plastic liners are best for shipping. Tarps are good for drying so long as you have fans moving air over the seed and gently rake it often.

Ultimately, you will need to store your clean seed in a refrigerated unit at around 38 – 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Seed varieties vary on their expiration from several months to several years.

Q5. Do you guarantee germination on the seed you clean?
A5. No. Too many factors outside of our control influence germination. A few factors may include: 1) timing - when the seeds were picked (i.e. too early or too late in the season), 2) environmental conditions, 3) storage and handling, and 4) improper planting and seedling care.

We are committed to limiting the number of broken or machine-damaged seeds. We also use individualized, seed specific settings on our machines to limit unwanted scarification (i.e. scratching to the seed coat).
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Q6. How quickly can you turn-around my order?
A6. It depends on whether we need to dry your seed before processing; but, generally speaking it takes only a few days from receipt. Customers can expedite orders by using next day shipping.

Q7. Why grow from seed?
A7. There are many reasons to grow from seed versus propagation through tissue cultures or buying liners/potted plants from outside growers.

Tissue cultures are expensive and less suitable for on-demand volume growing due to their limited shelf life. Liner-grown plants are in high demand due to transferability so demand often outstrips supply during peak periods. Controlling supply via a cached seed source offsets inventory shortages. Also, growing from seed enables you to keep a thumb on quality control for your customers.
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