1935 Tomato Seed Certification
The tomato seed certification program was developed in cooperation with the University of Illinois Horticulture Department to fight seed transmitted diseases. From 1935 to 1940, the program supported Illinois’s rapidly growing tomato canning industry. At the time, the worst diseases of tomatoes were seed-transmitted. Like many that have come and gone, the tomato program was performed “in addition to the well-known certification procedures, the Illinois Crop Improvement Association has offered many other services as the need has arisen.” – Fifty Years of Service 1922-1972.
At its 100th Anniversary, the Illinois Crop Improvement Seed Laboratory counted tomatoes as a significant part of its germination work. The lab now tests over 800 species for germination, vigor, and purity. Illinois Crop continues to provide confidence to a wide range of stakeholders with the time-honored tradition of applying standards and methods without bias or undue influence. As an independent third-party our laboratories participate in various validations and proficiencies. Check out our accreditations and affiliations on our new website under about us.
