Essential Conditions for Seed Germination

📚 Key Concepts

🔹 What is Germination?

Germination is the process by which a seed develops into a young plant (seedling).

image

🔹 Conditions Required for Germination

Three essential conditions are needed:

1. Water

  • Softens the seed coat
  • Activates enzymes for growth
  • Helps transport nutrients within the seed
  • Too much water: Seeds may rot due to lack of air
  • Too little water: Seeds cannot start growing

2. Air (Oxygen)

  • Seeds need oxygen for respiration
  • Available in spaces between soil particles
  • Without air: Seeds cannot release energy from stored food
  • Excess water blocks air supply

3. Suitable Temperature

  • Most seeds germinate at moderate temperatures
  • Too hot: May kill the developing embryo
  • Too cold: Slows down or stops germination

Important Note: Most seeds do not need light for germination, but seedlings need sunlight after germination for healthy growth.

🔹 Simple Germination Experiment

Setup four pots with bean seeds:

  • Pot A: No water, direct sunlight → No germination
  • Pot B: Excess water, direct sunlight → No germination (no air)
  • Pot C: Moist soil, darkness → Germination occurs
  • Pot D: Moist soil, direct sunlight → Best germination

Conclusion: Seeds need water, air, and suitable temperature for germination. Light is not essential for germination but needed for further growth.

image