What are the Different Stages of Germination from Seed to Seedling?
Germination is the process by which a seed develops into a seedling. It involves a series of complex physiological and biochemical changes that allow the seed to break out of its protective coat and begin growing. The process typically involves three distinct stages:
1. Imbibition: The seed absorbs water and swells, causing the seed coat to soften and break open. Enzymes are activated, triggering the metabolic processes necessary for germination.
2. Radical Emergence: The radicle, or primary root, emerges from the seed and begins to grow downward, anchoring the seedling and providing water and nutrients from the soil.
3. Hypocotyl Elongation: The hypocotyl, or stem, elongates and pushes the cotyledons, or seed leaves, above the ground. The cotyledons unfold and begin photosynthesis, providing the seedling with its first source of food.
Once the cotyledons are fully expanded, the seedling has completed germination and is ready to begin growing as a plant.
Related Questions:
- What is the function of the radicle?
- What do cotyledons provide to the seedling?
- What environmental factors influence germination?
- What are some common germination techniques?
- What is the difference between epigeal and hypogeal germination?
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