Seed Germination

Seed germination is the process by which a seed begins to grow and develop into a plant. It is a complex process involving many different steps, including imbibition, the uptake of water by the seed; the breakdown of stored food reserves; and the growth and development of the embryo. This process is affected by both internal and external factors, such as the availability of water, light, and temperature. In order for a seed to successfully germinate, the conditions must be ideal for the emerging seedling. The seed coat must be breached, the embryo must be metabolically active, and the seed must be able to take up sufficient amounts of water and nutrients. The seed must also be exposed to the correct temperature and light conditions in order for the embryo to develop. Once the seed germinates, it begins to grow, forming a root system and eventually a shoot. The shoot grows towards the light and the root system grows down into the soil, searching for nutrients and water. As the seedling continues to grow, it eventually emerges from the soil, forming leaves and flowers and becoming a fully developed plant.