Germination is important. Why may you ask? In this short, but informative article, you will learn everything you need to know about the basics of germination and more.
Firstly, to learn about germination, we first need to establish what germination is. Germination is the vegetating of a seed, spore, or other bodies which are capable of reproduction after a certain era of inactivity.
What are the conditions necessary for germination to take place?
- Environmental conditions are favorable : For germination to occur, the environmental conditions must be favorable in order to support the growing plant. The soil depth, amount of water, and temperature are all critical conditions that must be met in order for the process of germination to be initiated. Typically, the soil conditions must be moist and warm.
- Moisture : Germination is initiated when water is absorbed. The seed absorbs water through a structure called a micropyle, which induces swelling of the seed until it splits open.
- Root and Shoot formation : Once the seed has split, the radicle and plumule can emerge from the seed. This process is initiated by specific enzymes that become activated when the seed is exposed to water. The roots grow downwards, and the shoot grows upwards towards the soil surface.
- A seedling sprouts : Once the shoot emerges from the soil surface, the cotyledons become fully unfolded and expand, eventually forming the first leaves. Once this occurs, the plant is ready to initiate photosynthesis and is considered a seedling (shown below).
– By Sameera D. & Jad N.