Question

Briefly, explain the factors that are necessary for germination.

Answer 1

The factors necessary for germination are:

1. Water-Water is essential for seed germination since protoplasm becomes active only when saturated with water. Water facilitates the necessary chemical changes in food material. Also enzymatic reaction occurs only in the water medium. Water when imbibed by the seed coat makes it soft and swollen. Then the seed coat bursts open, helping the embryo come out easily.
2. Temperature - A suitable temperature is essential for seed germination since many physiological processes occur within the seed during germination. Seeds fail to germinate below 0°C or above 45°C. The optimum temperature for seed germination is 15-30°C.
3. Oxygen - During germination, embryo resumes growth and for this energy is required. This energy comes from the oxidation of food material stored in the endosperm or cotyledons. This process requires oxygen.