Understanding Seed Dormancy and Germination

Seed dormancy is a survival mechanism ensuring seeds germinate only under favorable conditions. It prevents seeds from sprouting during unsuitable environmental conditions, thus safeguarding the seedling's growth prospects.

Dormancy is induced by factors like temperature, light, and water availability. There are physical dormancies, with hard seed coats, and physiological dormancies, where internal factors prevent germination.

Dormancy can be broken naturally by weathering or artificially through scarification and stratification. These processes mimic natural conditions that weaken the seed coat or trigger internal changes.

For germination, a seed requires proper water, oxygen, and the correct temperature. These factors activate enzymes that initiate the growth process, converting stored food into energy for the emerging seedling.

Abscisic Acid (ABA) is a plant hormone that maintains dormancy. It inhibits germination but is gradually broken down or leached away, allowing the seed to eventually germinate when conditions improve.

Temperature influences germination speed and success. Some seeds require cold stratification, experiencing winter-like temperatures, to break dormancy, while others need warmth, simulating summer conditions.

Dormancy has evolved differently across plant species. Some desert plants have seeds that can remain dormant for years until significant rainfall, a strategy ensuring species survival in harsh conditions.