The Australian Seed Federation (ASF), in partnership with Plant Health Australia (PHA), has been running the Know Before You Sow campaign to emphasise the critical importance of seed quality, integrity and transparency for all seed buyers, agronomists, and growers.
ASF CEO Katherine Delbridge explains whether you’re planting a crop or sowing a pasture, seed is the most important input you’ll use.
“It sets the foundation for everything that follows – yield, quality, and even weed control.”
“That’s why it pays to look closely at the seed you’re buying.
“Is it good quality?
Will it perform as expected?
And just as importantly, is it free from unwanted surprises, like pests and diseases?”
To take the guess work out, ASF has developed the simple Know Before You Sow Checklist to ensure you ask the following key questions before you buy seed:
“Cutting corners on seed is a false economy, and every grower deserves certainty about the seed they are purchasing, and every adviser should feel confident recommending it,” Katherine outlines.
“Seed is the starting point for every crop.
“Using certified or quality-assured seed provides growers with confidence in what they are sowing, supporting better yields, stronger plant vigour, and resistance to pests and diseases.”
The risks of poor-quality seed are significant, from low germination rates to inconsistent performance and even the introduction of weeds or pathogens that threaten biosecurity.
The campaign also draws attention to the importance of respecting Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR).
Breeders invest heavily in developing new varieties that lift productivity, strengthen resilience, and deliver benefits to growers and consumers alike. Unauthorised on-selling of seed not only breaches the law but also undermines this cycle of innovation.
“Ultimately, doing the right thing matters,” says Katherine.
“It’s not just about one person getting a bargain – it’s about protecting the rights of breeders, the livelihoods of farmers and the integrity of an entire industry.
“When we all play our part, the whole sector is stronger.”
The ASF and PHA strongly encourage their members. as well as those in the market for seed, to spread the message of the Know Before You Sow campaign.
Katherine explains the campaign is only effective if the message reaches growers, agronomists and industry right across Australia.
“You can jump on to the ausseed.org.au website to download digital resources and together, we can make sure the importance of seed quality, integrity and transparency is front and centre.”
The campaign’s message is clear: cutting corners on seed is a false economy.
By choosing quality-assured seed and respecting intellectual property rights, growers and advisers can help lift industry standards, protect biosecurity, and ensure Australia’s seed sector continues to deliver value well into the future.
Learn more: ausseed.org.au/know-before-you-sow
