Wheat is a key staple crop in Ethiopia, and source of input for the expanding food processing industries in the country. Improved seeds in crop production could contribute to increase in the productivity and production. Supply of improved seed has always been shorter than yearly demand by farmers. Promotion and development of informal seed production could make considerable contribution to local seed supplies; moreover, quality of seeds produced and distributed to the study area is a matter of concern. The present study was carried out with objectives of assessing seed system and quality of seed consumed by farmer. The survey was conducted in two districts of Guji Zone (i.e. Bore and Anna Sorra) during 2013 cropping season. Semi-structured questionnaire was administered to collect pertinent information from 102 randomly selected households on seed quality parameters, farmer’s seed sources, agronomic practices of wheat production. The survey results shows that formal extension service is the main source of information for new technologies, high input prices, unavailability in type and amount and lack of credit services were some of bottlenecks to disseminate and adopt improved wheat technologies in study areas. From different varieties grown; seed sample of two varieties (i.e. Galama and Digalu) were collected for laboratory test. The quality analyses of different parameters were carried out in 2x2 CRD with factorial arrangement. From laboratory result, varieties and seed system fulfill the national seed standards of the country in most parameters; six fungal genera were identified in seed health. To improve the production and distribution of certified seed and promoting seed sectors in study areas, attention should be given to sustainable supply of quality seed.

Keywords: Seed system, Seed quality, Bread wheat and Guji Zone