Seed dormancy
The condition in which a seed does not germinate even though the factors essential for germination are present is called seed dormancy.
Seeds show dormancy as an adaptation to adverse environmental conditions. Water and warmth after a first shower do not mean the rainy season has arrived; a seed that germinated on that evidence alone would die when the ground dried again. Dormancy is the seed declining to take the bet.
The following factors affect dormancy in seeds
- the embryo not being mature;
- the seed coat being impermeable to oxygen or water.
Removing dormancy
Various techniques are followed in order to remove dormancy in seeds. A few such methods are given below.
| Method | Example |
|---|---|
| Storing the seeds for some time before germination | — |
| Burning the outer husk before germination | teak |
| Removing the seed coat and then using the seed for germination | orange |
| Immersing the seeds in hot water before germination | ipil-ipil |
| Cracking the seeds before germination | nelli |
Four of the five attack the seed coat
Burning, removing, scalding and cracking all do the same thing: they break the coat's seal so water and oxygen can get through. Only storing is different — it waits for an immature embryo to finish ripening. Match the method to which of the two causes you are dealing with.