Question

Describe the process of germination in bean and maize seeds.

Answer 1

Germination in bean seed is called epigeal germination. It occurs as follows:

1. Germination starts with the uptake of water, which bursts the seed coat, and the radicle comes out and grows downwards.
2. The region of plumules elongates and the seed comes out of the soil. The plumule emerges between the two cotyledons.
3. The plumule forms two green leaves.
4. The food stored in the cotyledons is used for growth and cotyledons shrivel and fall off.
5. The radicle gives rise to the root system while the plumule forms the shoot.

Germination in maize seed is called hypogeal germination. It occurs as follows:

1. The seeds absorb water and swell.
2. Radicle comes out of the seed and forms the primary root.
3. The plumule comes out forming the leaves.
4. The food stored in the endosperm is used for growth
5. The cotyledons remain below the ground.