Seeds: Germination Is When A Seed Embryo Goes From A Dormant
Seeds: Germination Is When A Seed Embryo Goes From A Dormant
Seeds: Germination Is When A Seed Embryo Goes From A Dormant
Germination
Germination is when a seed embryo goes from a dormant
state to an active, growing state (Figure 23). Before any
visual signs of germination appear, the seed must absorb
water through its seed coat. It also must have enough
oxygen and a favorable temperature. Some species, such
as celery, also require light. Others require darkness.
If these requirements are met, the radicle is the first part
of the seedling to emerge from the seed. It develops into
the primary root and grows downward in response to
gravity. From this primary root, root hairs and lateral roots
develop. Between the radicle and the first leaflike structure
is the hypocotyl, which grows upward in response to light.
Because seeds are reproductive structures and thus important to a species' survival,
plants have evolved many mechanisms to ensure their survival.