- After fertilization, the zygote develops into an embryo, which is enclosed within a seed.
- The seed consists of:
- Seed coat: protects the embryo
- Embryo: the young plant
- Endosperm: provides nutrients for the developing embryo
- Seed germination is the process of the seed developing into a new plant.
- Seed germination requires specific conditions for growth to occur.
- The process of seed germination includes the following steps:
1. Imbibition: The seed absorbs water, causing it to swell and activate metabolic processes.
2. Activation: Enzymes within the seed become active, initiating growth.
3. Respiration: Energy is produced through cellular respiration to support growth.
4. Growth: The radicle (embryonic root) emerges from the seed, followed by the shoot.
5. Seedling development: Leaves develop, and the seedling undergoes photosynthesis.
- The germination of seeds is influenced by various factors:
- Water: Seeds need an adequate water supply to initiate the germination process.
- Temperature: Optimal temperatures promote better and faster germination.
- Oxygen: Oxygen is necessary for the respiration process during seed germination.
- Light: Some seeds require light (photoblastic) for germination, while others don't.
- Dormancy: Some seeds remain dormant until specific conditions trigger germination.
- Seed dormancy is a state in which seeds are prevented from germinating under unfavorable conditions.
- Different types of seed dormancy include:
1. Physiological dormancy: Caused by the presence of inhibitors or growth-promoting factors.
2. Physical dormancy: Seed coat impermeability prevents water absorption.
3. Morphological dormancy: Embryo immaturity inhibits germination.
4. Morphophysiological dormancy: Combination of physiological and morphological dormancy.
- Various methods can be used to overcome seed dormancy:
1. Scarification: Mechanical or chemical treatment to break seed coat dormancy.
2. Stratification: Exposing seeds to cold temperatures to simulate natural conditions.
3. Gibberellin treatment: Applying plant growth hormones to promote germination.
4. Smoke treatment: Some seeds require smoke exposure for germination stimulation.
5. Seed-soaking: Pre-soaking seeds in water before sowing can enhance germination.
- Seed dormancy has several advantages for plant survival:
1. Ensures the availability of germinating seeds over extended periods.
2. Allows seeds to disperse over wide areas by wind, water, or animals.
3. Protects seeds from unfavorable environmental conditions until optimal for growth.
4. Promotes genetic diversity as germination occurs in different habitats and seasons.
- Seed germination is a crucial process for plant reproduction and survival.
- Proper environmental conditions, including water, temperature, oxygen, and light, are essential for successful germination.
- Seed dormancy allows plants to delay germination until favorable conditions are met, promoting survival and dispersal.