Definition of Germination
Germination is the process by which a seed develops into a new plant under the right
environmental conditions. It marks the beginning of growth for the embryo inside the seed after
a period of dormancy (resting).
🧪 Stages of Germination
1. Water Absorption (Imbibition)
o The dry seed absorbs water through the seed coat.
o This causes the seed to swell and soften.
o Water activates enzymes that begin the chemical processes inside the seed.
2. Activation of Enzymes
o Enzymes become active and start breaking down food stores (like starch) into
simpler substances (like glucose).
o These substances provide energy for the growing embryo.
3. Respiration Begins
o The seed starts aerobic respiration (uses oxygen) to produce energy (ATP) from
glucose.
o Energy is used for cell division and growth.
4. Growth of Embryo
o The radicle (embryonic root) grows and pushes downward into the soil.
o Then, the plumule (embryonic shoot) grows upward, emerging above the soil.
5. Seedling Formation
o Once the shoot breaks the surface, it begins photosynthesis.
o The plant becomes independent and starts making its own food.
⚙️Conditions Required for Germination
1. Water
o To soften the seed coat.
o To activate enzymes.
o To transport dissolved nutrients.
2. Oxygen
o For aerobic respiration.
o Energy is needed for cell division and growth.
3. Temperature
o Must be suitable (not too hot or cold) for enzyme activity.
o Different seeds have different optimal temperatures.
4. (Light)
o Not always required. Some seeds germinate in the dark, others need light (e.g.,
lettuce).
o Becomes important after the seedling emerges, for photosynthesis.
🌰 Structure of a Seed (Typical Dicot Seed)
Seed Coat (Testa) – A tough outer covering that protects the seed.
Embryo – The baby plant consisting of:
o Radicle (root)
o Plumule (shoot)
Cotyledons – Seed leaves containing stored food (mainly starch, protein, oils).
Micropyle – Tiny hole where water enters.
🧬 Types of Germination
1. Epigeal Germination
o The cotyledons are pushed above the soil.
o Example: Bean seed.
2. Hypogeal Germination
o The cotyledons stay below the soil.
o Example: Maize seed.
🔁 Dormancy
A period when the seed is alive but not actively growing.
It helps the seed survive harsh conditions (e.g., winter or drought).
Germination begins when conditions are favorable again.
🔬 Experiments to Investigate Germination
Basic Setup:
You can set up 4 test tubes or petri dishes with seeds and vary one condition at a time.
Test Tube Seeds Water Oxygen Temperature Expected Result
A ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ Germination occurs
B ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ No germination (no water)
Test Tube Seeds Water Oxygen Temperature Expected Result
C ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ No germination (no oxygen)
D ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ (cold) Very slow or no germination
🌿 Why Germination is Important
It allows seeds to grow into new plants, continuing the life cycle.
Essential for crop production and reforestation.
Knowledge of germination helps farmers ensure better seedling success.
📝 Key Vocabulary
Term Meaning
Germination Process by which a seed begins to grow into a plant
Dormancy Resting period before germination begins
Cotyledon Part of the seed that stores food for the embryo
Embryo The young plant inside the seed (includes radicle and plumule)
Radicle Embryonic root; first part to emerge during germination
Plumule Embryonic shoot; grows upward after root
Imbibition Absorption of water by the seed
Respiration Chemical process that releases energy from food
🔄 Germination vs Seedling Growth
Feature Germination Seedling Growth
Energy Source Stored food in cotyledons or endosperm Energy from photosynthesis
Process Seed activates, root and shoot emerge Plant grows leaves and stems
Light Needed Often not needed initially Required for photosynthesis
📚 Extension: Monocot vs Dicot Seeds
Feature Monocot (e.g., maize) Dicot (e.g., bean)
Number of Cotyledons 1 2
Type of Germination Usually hypogeal Usually epigeal
Leaf Veins Parallel Branched
Examples Grass, wheat, corn Beans, peas, sunflowers
🧠 Summary Points
Germination is the first step in a plant’s life after dormancy.
It requires water, oxygen, and the right temperature.
Enzymes help convert stored food into energy.
The root grows first, then the shoot.
Once the plant starts photosynthesis, it becomes independent.
