Germination capacity reflects the ability of seeds to germinate under optimal laboratory conditions and is expressed as a percentage of normally germinated seeds relative to the total number of seeds sown in a sample. In agronomic practice, field germination, which is always 5–25% lower than laboratory results due to environmental factors, and germination energy, which characterizes the uniformity of seedling emergence, are also distinguished.
The value of germination capacity depends on storage conditions of the seed material, adherence to temperature and humidity levels, and the biological age of the seeds. Field performance additionally depends on sowing depth, soil composition, and the presence of pests and diseases during the germination period, which requires consideration when planning crops.
Assessment of germination capacity is conducted according to approved state protocols by germinating seed samples under controlled conditions in incubators. The obtained data are mandatory for calculating the seeding rate: low values require an increase in the number of seeds per hectare to prevent thinning of crops and to ensure target yields.