The most important external factor for seed germination is
Water, air and suitable temperature are necessary for seed germination. Water is necesssary for germination because food is stored in the seeds in dry condition, but the developing embryo cannot utilize this dry food. Food can be utilized in liquid form only and seeds can utilize only dissolved oxygen. Excess water stops germination because once all the dissolved oxygen is utilised by the seed, further germination is not possible as the life supporting oxygen is now lacking. So, the correct answer is 'Water'.