Question

Define germination. What are the conditions required for germination of seed?

Answer 1

Germination:

1. Definition: The process by which a new plant develops from the dormant embryo present inside a seed is called germination.
2. During germination, the seed swells up and the seed coat bursts.
3. The radicle grows downwards forming the primary root while the plumule grows upwards forming the shoot of the plant.
4. The cotyledons of the seed develop into the first leaves of the new plant.

Conditions necessary for seed germination:

1. Water: Water is required for the seed to absorb and swell up so that seed coat can burst open bringing out the embryo.
   • Water also makes the stored food available during germination for the new plant to develop.
2. Air: There is a requirement of oxygen in the seeds for respiration and production of energy from the stored food.
3. Temperature: An ideal temperature between 35^oC and 40^oC must be present since the enzymes for seed germination are most active at this temperature.