Question

In pea, the maximum permissible size of a seed lot is -

• A. 20,000 kg
• B. 10,000 kg
• C. 5,000 kg
• D. 4,000 kg

Hint:

To remember seed lot size limits:
- Most small seeds: 10,000 kg
- Wheat, oats, barley, peas, beans, and soybeans: 20,000 kg
- Maize: 40,000 kg
This quick classification covers almost all major field crops.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A seed lot is a physically identifiable, uniform quantity of seed represented by a single seed sample.
To ensure homogeneity and representative sampling, the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and national seed certification bodies define the maximum permissible weight of a single seed lot.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The maximum permissible seed lot size is determined by the size and weight of the seed:
- For small-seeded crops (such as brassicas, clovers, and grasses), the maximum lot size is capped at 10,000 kg.
- For large-seeded crops of the size of wheat or larger (which includes cereals like wheat, barley, oats, and large-seeded legumes like pea, soybean, and common vetch), the maximum lot size is set at 20,000 kg.
- Maize has a higher limit of up to 40,000 kg (or 30,000 kg in some standards) due to its extremely large seed size.
Pea (Pisum sativum) is a large-seeded pulse crop.
Therefore, under standard seed certification guidelines, the maximum permissible size of a single seed lot of pea is 20,000 kg.
If the total quantity of seed exceeds 20,000 kg, it must be divided into separate lots, each with its own lot designation, sampling, and testing.
Options (B), (C), and (D) are incorrect because they represent smaller limits that are below the standard maximum threshold for large-seeded legumes.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The maximum permissible size of a seed lot for pea is 20,000 kg.
Therefore, the correct option is (A).