Certified Seed – Start Right with Overberg Agri
Every successful harvest begins long before the first green shoots emerge from the soil. It begins with one of the most important decisions a producer can make – choosing the right seed.
Every growing season presents its own challenges. From unpredictable weather conditions to factors beyond a farmer’s control, many variables can influence the final harvest. However one factor producers can control is the quality of the seed they plant.
Selecting a high-performing cultivar suited to the specific growing region and seed of excellent quality lays the foundation for strong germination, healthy crop establishment and maximum yield potential. Appropriate seed treatment also provides an important first line of defence against certain threats during the early stages of crop development.
Watch the video: Certified Seed – Start Right
Two years of forward planning for a strong start
At Overberg Agri, the journey towards delivering high-quality certified seed begins two years before the seed is planted by producers.
An carefully structured seed production programme forms the foundation of this process. Breeder seed from carefully selected cultivars is sourced from trusted seed breedering companies. Selected producers across the Swartland and Southern Cape regions are then contracted to multiply the seed.
By spreading seed production across different geographical areas, Overberg Agri can better manage the risks associated with regional climatic challenges, including droughts and excessive rainfall. This approach also provides valuable opportunities to assess the suitability of selected cultivars for different growing regions, while supporting reliable seed availability.
Careful management from field to processing facility
Quality control begins in the field. Contracted seed producers follow carefully curated production guidelines, supported by regular field inspections and monitoring to maintain the required standards throughout the multiplication process.
Once harvested, seed is delivered to Overberg Agri’s seed depots across the Western Cape. Every consignment is carefully received, identified and recorded. Samples are collected for quality control and recordkeeping purposes, ensuring traceability throughout the process.
The seed then passes through several processing stages, where specialised equipment is used for cleaning, screening, sorting and grading. Each stage contributes to producing clean, uniform seed that meets the required quality standards.
Certified quality producers can trust
Overberg Agri’s commitment to quality extends beyond the physical processing of seed.
As a full member of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR), Overberg Agri supports recognised seed certification standards and rigorous quality control measures.
The certification process provides producers with greater confidence in the origin, identity and quality of the certified seed they purchase.
Throughout production and processing, particular attention is given to essential seed quality characteristics, including:
- Genetic and physical purity
- High germination potential
- Good seed health
- Uniform seed quality
- Traceability
These measures are not simply final checks before packaging. Quality assurance forms an integral part of every stage, from initial seed sourcing to the finished product.
Seed treatment and packaging
Following cleaning and grading, seed enters the treatment phase, which is specified per order and the producer’s requirements.
Different seed treatment products may be applied to protect the seed and support healthy crop establishment. The appropriate seed treatment depends on the crop, available treatment options and the producer’s requirements.
Using specialised equipment, seed treatments are applied as uniformly as possible to achieve consistent coverage before the seed undergoes final quality checks and packaging.
Professional processing services for producer-owned seed
Overberg Agri’s seed processing facilities do more than prepare certified seed for commercial distribution.
Producers, agricultural businesses and seed suppliers can also make use of Overberg Agri’s facilities for the cleaning, processing, treatment and packaging of their own seed.
The same commitment to careful handling and quality control is applied to these services, allowing clients to benefit from Overberg Agri’s expertise, specialised equipment and established seed processing procedures.
Producers are encouraged to contact their nearest Overberg Agri Seed Manager for information on available services and current processing rates.
Choose a start you can build on
While no producer can control every challenge a growing season may bring, selecting the right seed can make a meaningful difference.
Through forward planning, carefully managed seed production, specialised processing and rigorous quality assurance, Overberg Agri remains committed to providing certified seed that producers can choose with confidence.
You cannot control every factor of a growing season, but you can control how you begin.
Choose a start you can build on. Choose Overberg Agri certified seed.
Contact your nearest Overberg Agri Seed Manager to learn more about available certified seed, cultivars, seed treatment options and seed processing services.
Watch the video: Certified Seed – Start Right
Seed depot contact details
For enquiries about certified seed, seed availability and seed processing services, please contact your nearest Overberg Agri seed depot.
Overberg
Caledon Seed
Melissa Steenkamp
Tel: 028 214 3818
Bredasdorp Seed
Carlo Taylor
Tel: 028 425 5852
Swartland
Moorreesburg Seed
Handrie Crous
Tel: 022 433 8361
Bergrivier Seed
Nico Wiid
Tel: 072 019 5661
Overberg Agri – Your Trusted Agricultural Partner.
