For the eligibility of varieties of seed refer to WAC 16-302-040. Four seed classes are recognized in seed certification, namely: Breeder, foundation, registered, and certified.

(1) Breeder seed is seed or vegetative propagating material directly controlled by the originating, or in certain cases the sponsoring plant breeder, institution, or firm. Breeder seed supplies the source for the initial and recurring increase of foundation seed. Breeder seed may also be used to produce subsequent generations.

(2) Foundation seed (identified by white tags) is first-generation seed increased from breeder seed or its equivalent. Production must be carefully supervised and approved by the certifying agency and/or the agricultural experiment station. Foundation seed is eligible to produce registered or certified seed.

(3) Registered seed (identified by purple tags) is the progeny of breeder or foundation seed that is handled as to maintain satisfactory genetic identity and purity and is approved and certified by the certifying agency. Registered seed is eligible to produce certified seed.

(4) Certified seed (identified by blue tags) is the progeny of breeder, foundation, registered or certified seed which is handled as to maintain satisfactory genetic identity and purity and is approved and certified by the certifying agency. Certified seed is not eligible for recertification, except as provided for in WAC 16-302-035.