germinates

Germination is the process by which a seed or spore resumes growth and develops into a new plant. In seed plants, germination begins when a seed imbibes water, triggering metabolic reactivation and the emergence of the embryonic root (radicle) and shoot.

The early stages include imbibition, metabolic activation, and cell division. The radicle typically emerges first, anchoring the seed and initiating nutrient uptake, followed by shoot emergence. In many plants, cotyledons or seed leaves appear and contribute to early photosynthesis or nutrient supply.

Germination is governed by environmental factors such as moisture, temperature, oxygen availability, and sometimes light. Seeds often require specific temperature ranges and sufficient water. Some species require light to germinate or darkness to germinate. Dormancy mechanisms—hormonal controls, seed coats, and physical or chemical inhibitors—prevent germination until conditions are favorable. Pre-treatments like scarification or chilling can break dormancy in certain seeds.

Germination types include epigeal germination, in which the cotyledons are carried above the soil surface, and hypogeal germination, where the cotyledons stay below ground. The concept also applies to spores in fungi, algae, and other organisms, where spore germination marks the start of growth into a new individual. Understanding germination is important for agriculture, horticulture, and ecology, influencing crop yields, plant establishment, and population dynamics. Note: germinates is the third-person singular form of germinate; the process described here is germination.