January 28, 2005
Are you looking for quality native seed to plant this year? The Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA) has published the Native Species Directory as a resource for finding quality seeds that are native to the state of Iowa.
The Native Species Directory contains seed production information for more than 150 species of plants originating in Iowa that have been certified by ICIA. This includes cool and warm season grasses, legumes, sedges and rushes, shrubs and other forbs. The certification of native species provides a method for seed growers to certify the seed's source.
The association encourages consumers to request analysis information when making seed purchases. Customers can purchase seed that is labeled and certified as Source Identified or Selected class seed after passing field inspections and seed testing. This assures that buyers are purchasing quality seed.
The Native Species Directory is free and available by contacting ICIA at (515) 294-6921 or iowacrop@iastate.edu.