Understanding seed germination is crucial for plant growth, encompassing the transition from a dormant seed to a seedling. The process involves imbibition, lag phase, and radicle emergence, with epigeal or hypogeal patterns. Optimal temperature, moisture, and light are vital, as is overcoming dormancy through scarification or stratification. Transplanting germinated seedlings offers benefits like space efficiency and controlled growth conditions, essential for crops like tomatoes and broccoli.
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Seed germination is the process through which a dormant seed initiates growth and develops into a new plant
Temperature
Temperature is a critical determinant for successful seed germination, with each plant species having a specific temperature range that facilitates germination
Moisture
Moisture is another key factor for seed germination, as it activates the seed's metabolic processes
Light Requirements
Light requirements for seed germination vary among species, with some seeds requiring light and others germinating best in darkness
Seed dormancy is an adaptive trait that prevents seeds from germinating under suboptimal conditions
Imbibition is the initial phase of seed germination, during which the seed absorbs water and the seed coat swells and softens
The lag phase of seed germination involves internal physiological adjustments, such as increased respiration and protein synthesis
Radicle Emergence
The culmination of seed germination is marked by the radicle, or embryonic root, breaking through the seed coat
First True Leaf
The appearance of the first true leaf signifies the transition from a seed to a seedling
Transplanting germinated seedlings allows for more efficient use of space in nurseries and permits the initiation of growth under controlled conditions
Only viable seeds, which have the potential to germinate, should be selected for transplanting
Understanding and applying methods to break dormancy is essential for promoting germination in transplanted seedlings
00
Define seed imbibition.
Imbibition is the initial phase of germination where the seed absorbs water, causing the seed coat to swell and soften.
01
Describe the lag phase in seed germination.
The lag phase is a period of internal physiological changes in the seed, including increased respiration and protein synthesis from stored reserves.
02
What indicates the end of the germination process?
Germination ends when the radicle breaks through the seed coat, followed by the emergence of the first true leaf, marking the seed's transition to a seedling.
