Ten lots of bahia grass seed (Paspalum notatum Flugge) and ten lots of browntop millet seed (Panicum ramosum L.) were evaluated by the standard germination test and by a 20 minutes acid scarifïcation treatment. Following the laboratory study a field experiment was also conducted to determine the planting value of each seed lot. Bahia grass seed lots showed an average increase of 17,4% in germination in the laboratory after acid scarifïcation. However, non treated seed germinated, on the average 6,4% higher than acid scarified seed 38 days after planting. A 20 minute acid scarifïcation treatment almost overcame dormancy in bahia grass. At the and of the 28 day germination test period, firm seeds were subjected to the tetrazolium test. Results showed that most of these seed were still viable (70% for un-scarified seed an 50% for acid-scaritied seed). Total viability of the seeds was not affected by acid scarifïcation treatment but the number of abnormal seedlings increased. The acid scarifïcation method shortened the time required for germination by about nine days. A 20 minute sulfuric acid scarification treatment was detrimental to browntop millet in both laboratory and field tests. The number of abnormal seedlings was greatly increased and the seedlings were severely attacked by fungal organisms following the acid scarification treatment. The number of abnormal seedlings and degree of fungal attack were closely related to the time of sulturic acid treatment; as the time increased, abnormality increased.