csíráztatás

Csíráztatás, also known as germination, is the process by which a seed or a spore begins to grow. It is the initial stage of the life cycle of a plant, or in the case of fungi, the initial stage of growth from a spore. For seeds, germination is triggered by favorable environmental conditions, typically including water, oxygen, and an appropriate temperature. Moisture is absorbed by the seed, causing it to swell and the seed coat to soften or rupture. This allows the embryo within to access the stored food reserves, usually in the cotyledons or endosperm. Oxygen is necessary for respiration, which provides the energy for the embryo's growth. Temperature influences the rate of metabolic activity; each species has an optimal temperature range for germination.

The process begins with the activation of enzymes within the seed, which break down stored food into usable energy. The radicle, which will develop into the root, is usually the first part of the embryo to emerge from the seed. It grows downwards into the soil, anchoring the seedling and absorbing water and nutrients. Following the radicle, the plumule emerges, which will develop into the shoot, comprising the stem and leaves. The cotyledons may either remain below ground or emerge above ground, depending on the species, and often serve as the first leaves or provide nourishment until true leaves develop. Germination is a critical step for the survival and propagation of many plant species.