OSA Seed Labeling Database

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About

Welcome to the OSA Seed Labeling Database, your comprehensive resource for label compliance with U.S. state seed acts and rules. The resource was developed under the leadership of the OSA Science and Technology Committee and is available at no charge until end of 2025 thanks to funding from Oregon’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. It includes up-to-date information for Truth-in-Labeling rules across all U.S. states for turf and lawn grass seed products as well as vegetable seeds grown in Oregon.

Designed for seed producers and distributors, our database helps navigate state-specific requirements related to labeling with “Variety not stated”, origin, net weight, sell by dates, and more, ensuring compliance of inter-state shipped products with each state’s rule and the Federal Seed Act. In addition, the database will provide contact information for all state seed officials and links to the relevant seed acts and rules. The database does not include information about seed quality standards like germination rates, maximum weed seed contents, etc. This information can be found in the state seed acts and rules, with links provided in the state overview section of the database.

View and search the database by product:

Turf and Lawn Grass Seed Vegetable Seed

We compiled detailed instructions to help you navigate, and query data within the two databases in two guides. Please reach out to [email protected] for further questions or a database training. Details on how the regulations were analyzed and coded are available in each database under “Methodology” for convenient reference during use.

Click here for the Turf and Lawn Seed Database User Guide.

Click here for the Vegetable Seed Database User Guide.

How can I use this database?

You can use this database to:

  • Ensure compliance with rules applicable in all the states you are shipping to
  • Verify that you have printed all state specific statements on the label
  • Determine whether your seed analysis is still valid
  • Review rules applicable to certain container sizes of turf and lawn grass seed types.

What information does the database provide?

The database covers the aspects of Truth in Labeling laws, including:

  • State restrictions on using terms like “Variety not stated”
  • Requirements related to origin and net weight
  • Rules related to date of test and sell-by dates
  • Additional statements and/or terms specific to each state and/or product

What types of seeds are covered in the database?

The database includes labeling rules for:

  • Single-kind turf and lawn seed products
  • Turf and lawn seed mixtures (but not seed blends)
  • Cool-season grass turf and lawn products (sold as single-kind products or mixtures)
  • White and red clover as part of turf and lawn seed mixtures
  • Vegetable seeds

Does the database include rules specific to a certain seed commodity?

Turf and Lawn: While the labeling rules can only be displayed by seed products (e.g. cool-season grass seed mix), we have reviewed state regulations for rules that apply to specific kinds that are grown in Oregon. Only the Federal Seed Act includes requirements that apply only to certain species produced in Oregon. This information is included in the database under “Additional rules: Federal Seed Act”. A detailed list of covered commodities can be found in the Turf and Lawn Database.

Vegetables: The database covers rules for all species generally recognized as vegetable seeds. U.S. states and the Federal Seed Act generally apply uniform labeling rules to all kinds of vegetable seeds. Any exceptions from this general regulatory framework are highlighted in the database.

Does the database cover rules for specific seed products like treated seeds?

Yes, the database covers state specific rules for coated seed and other products when specifically regulated by a state. The database also includes the general federal seed act rules for treated and inoculated seed products, hybrid seed, and mixtures. It does not provide information for GMO seeds, certified seeds, fertilizer-seed mixtures, and turf and lawn grass seeds placed in a germination medium, mat, tape or other device or mixed with mulch.

When will the database be updated next?

We do not update the database on a fixed schedule, but whenever new regulatory information is published by a state. New or changed requirements will be added to the database once they are in force.

How do I report missing or updated information?

Are there rules that need to be updated? Any corrections needed? Then please send us an email at [email protected] with “OSA Seed Labeling Database” in the subject line, and we will review the database and state rules against your feedback.

If I have questions or feedback about the database, who should I contact?

If you have feedback, questions or ideas to improve the database, please send us an email at [email protected] with “OSA Seed Labeling Database” in the subject line.

Does this database provide legal advice?

No, the database is for informational purposes only, using information provided in official regulations and by state officials via surveys. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot offer assurance that this reference material is error-free.

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is updated on an irregular basis. While we strive to keep the content accurate and current, the data authors, Oregon Seed Association, and the database (collectively “OSA”) make no guarantees or representations of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of any information contained on the site.

The consumers of this regulatory information (“Data User”) are solely responsible for verifying the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of any information before relying on it. Any reliance a Data User places on such information is strictly at the Data User’s own risk. The Data User accepts that the information is only intended to be an initial reference for convenience, and that there is no assurance that this reference material is error-free.

OSA expressly disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or inconvenience arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information presented on this website, including but not limited to any errors or omissions. OSA make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the published regulations or data.  OSA shall not be liable for damages resulting from any use, interpretation, or misinterpretation of the data.

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Our website address is: https://oregonseed.org/.

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Effective Date

3/31/2025