Question

List conditions necessary for germination.

Answer 1

Germination:

1. Germination is a process during which a seed grows into a plant.
2. During germination, the seed absorbs water, swells up, and then its seed coat ruptures.
3. First, a radicle and then a plumule emerges from the seed.
4. The most important conditions necessary for germination are water, light, and oxygen.
   • Water: Water is essential for germination. Water softens the seed coat and brings the necessary changes in the embryo present inside the seed.
   • Dried seeds like wheat and pulses have about 10% - 12% water content. No vital activity is possible if the water content is at a low level.
   • Temperature: A suitable temperature is necessary for the germination of seeds. Most seeds can germinate within a wide range of temperatures from 40 °C to 50 °C, the optimum being 25 °C- 35 °C because temperature controls the metabolic processes of the seed.
   • A higher temperature (but within the prescribed limits) means more rapid germination.
   • Air (Oxygen): Oxygen is necessary for the respiration of germinating seeds.
   • Respiration releases energy by breaking down the stored food and activating the protoplasm of the seed. Germinating seeds respire vigorously.