Organic Seed Certification

Organic farming is a production system. The priorities of organic farming are the health of crops, livestock, farmers and laborers, end consumers, and the environment. Organically grown seed must meet the standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Organic Program (NOP). Organic seed crops must be grown from certified organic seeds.

Genetic Purity

Only open pollinated and naturally pollinated seeds can be certified organic. Genetic engineering is forbidden. An exception is made if certified organic seed is not available commercially for source seed.

Pesticides

Organic seed must be grown without the use of chemical pesticides, herbicides or insecticides. Organically approved insect and weed controls are permissible.

Beneficial Insects

Organic farmers who produce seed crops should encourage beneficial insect populations. Beneficial insects are predatory insects that kill or parasitize harmful insects, making chemical controls unnecessary.

Soil Practices

Growers must use sustainable farming practices that naturally build the soil tilth and fertility. Synthetic chemical fertilizers are not approved in the NOP seed certification standards.

Time Sensitivity

Areas planted for organic seed production must be free from chemical use for a period of at least three years. Accredited USDA personnel make annual inspections.

References

• Purdue University Extension: Seed Quality Testing and Certification: Resources Useful in Organic Seed Production
• Purdue University Extension: Organic Seed Resource Guide: Introduction and Table of Contents

Resources

• University of California, Biotech: Organic Seed Certification