This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of forest seed science, focusing on the pivotal role of seeds in forestry and afforestation programs. It emphasizes the importance of quality seeds for increasing forest cover to meet environmental and livelihood objectives. Addressing key aspects such as seed harvesting, collection, storage, viability, and certification, the book underscores the scientific principles essential for germplasm conservation and successful afforestation. Designed to cater to the growing demand for quality seeds and to overcome challenges in seed processing, this volume serves as an invaluable resource for students and professionals. It offers insights into seed testing and certification processes, ensuring the production and storage of high-quality seeds. With a clear focus on foundational knowledge, this book is an essential guide for understanding the science behind forest seed production and its application in sustainable forestry.

Prof. T. H. Masoodi is presently working as Registrar Sheri-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and technology of Kashmir, SKUAS-K) Shalimar. Prior to this Prof. Masoodi has served in the various capacities like Dean Faculty of Forestry, Director Research, Associate Director Research Leh and Head department of forestry SKUAST-Kashmir. Having more than thirty years of experience in the field of forestry, and doctoral degree from FRI, Dehradun, Prof. Masoodi has been associated with academics, research and extension work with more than 100 publications of international repute in national and international journals and has guided more than 15 students and masters and doctorate level. He has handled around 20 external funded projects as PI/Co-PI and has been member of various state/national level agencies. Prof. Masoodi has been instrumental in conducting number of trainings and bringing technology from lab to land in leh-Ladakh for the welfare of the farming community.

Parvez A. Sofi is working as Professor and Head in the Division of Forest Products and Utilization, Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Ag- ricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India. Dr.Sofi has completed his Ph.D Forestry from Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nau- ni, Solan (H.P). Dr. Sofi is a motivating teacher and scientist driven to inspire stu- dents to pursue academic and personal excellence with over 19 yrs of experience in teaching, research and extension in the field of Forestry. He has an exception- al track record of research success with more than 100 publications of National and International repute. Besides Dr. Sofi has developed many technologies and value added herbal products in medicinal and aromatic plants. He is pioneer in establishing MAP based revenue generation models at the Faculty of Forestry SKUAST-Kashmir. Dr. Sofi is the peer reviewer of International Journal of Ag- ricultural Sciences (IJAS), besides member of various national and international organizations. He is also member of various statutory bodies of the University. Dr. Sofi has guided dozens of M.Sc and Ph.D students and is also Nodal officer of All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and National Bamboo Mission. Dr. Sofi has handled number of externally funded projects and is also the author of many books and book chapters.

Dr. Nazir A. Pala, Assistant Professor in the division of silviculture & agroforestry, Faculty of forestry, SKUAST-Kashmir has more than ten years of experience in teaching and research. Prior to this Dr. Pala has the experience of working at UBKV, West Bengal, Himgiri Zee University Dehradun, Dolphin Institute, Dehradun, TERI, New Delhi, EIA consultant at NTPC, Govt. of India. Dr. Pala has been involved in handling several external funded projects and has more than 200 research publication and 04 books of national and international repute to his credit. Dr. Pala is the member of several international environmental organizations apart from being on the editorial board/reviewer of number of international journals.

1. Seed Biology
2. Seed Collection and Processing
3. Extraction and Processing of Seed
4. Seed Dormancy and Germination
5. Seed Testing
6. Certification of Forest Tree Seed and Plants