Seed, certified

The progeny of foundation, registered, or certified seed that is handled to maintain satisfactory purity, as certified by a certifying agency, e.g., the Idaho Crop Improvement Association, Incorporation. A system whereby the seed of plant cultivars (and pre-varietal releases) is produced, harvested, and marketed under authorized regulation to ensure seed of high quality and genetic purity. [Source: USDA National Plant Materials Manual]