Know Before You Sow

The Australian Seed Federation (ASF), in partnership with Plant Health Australia (PHA), has launched the Know Before You Sow campaign to emphasise the critical importance of seed quality, integrity and transparency for all seed buyers, agronomists, and growers.

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.

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.

The Know Before You Sow Checklist

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?

Download the Know Before You Sow Checklist and make sure you ask the following questions before you buy your seed;

• Is it the species you want?
• Is it the variety you want?
• Is it a true variety?
• Is a current Statement of Seed Analysis available?
• Is the seed lot number on the statement the same as the one on the bag or label?
• Is the seed provided by an ASF member?
• Is the variety covered by Plant Breeders Rights (PBR)?

The Know Before You Sow social media toolkit

Help us spread the word! The Know Before You Sow campaign is only effective if the message reaches growers, agronomists and industry right across Australia.

We’re asking all ASF members and partners to get involved by sharing the campaign through your own social media channels.

👉 Download the toolkit here: KBYS Social Media Kit

👉 Post, tag, and amplify the message in your networks

Together, we can make sure the importance of seed quality, integrity and transparency is front and centre.