Seed germination in nature is a complex process that involves several stages. When a seed falls onto the soil, it absorbs water through its seed coat, causing it to swell and soften. This process is known as imbibition. Once the seed has absorbed enough water, it activates certain enzymes that break down stored nutrients inside the seed, such as starch and proteins, into simpler forms that the growing seedling can use.
As the nutrients become available, the radicle, or embryonic root, emerges from the seed and starts to grow downward into the soil. At the same time, the hypocotyl, which will become the stem of the plant, starts to elongate and push the embryonic leaves, or cotyledons, above the soil surface. The cotyledons provide the initial source of nutrients for the developing seedling until it can start photosynthesizing on its own.
Overall, seed germination is a vital process that allows plants to continue their life cycle by producing new seedlings and ensuring the survival of the species.
