Germinating a Seed

Plumule

The essential part of the seed embryo which further develops into the shoot of the plant. It emerges out of the soil and develops young leaves and stems. The main parts of it are the epicotyl, the young leaves and the apical meristematic tissue of the shoot.

Embryo

The young, multicellular plant found within a seed, comprising a radicle (embryonic root), plumule (embryonic shoot). and one or more cotyledons (seed leaves). It serves as the starting point for a new plant, drawing nourishment from stored food in the endosperm or cotyledons until it can photosynthesize independently. A seed also contains a protective seed coat

Seed coat

The protective outer layer of a seed that shields the embryo from physical harm, temperature extremes, and dying our, while also regulating water and gas passage to control dormancy and germination

Epicotyl

The part of the embryonic stem and is the primary part that develops into the stem and the plant's first true leaves. In germination, it elongates to push the plumule through the soil, with the cotyledons remaining below ground. During germination in the dark, it forms a hook, protecting the delicate plumule from damage as it pushes through the soil

Radicle

The primary embryonic root of a plant and the list part of the seeding to emerge from the seed during germination. Its main functions are to grow downwards into the soil, anchoring the plant absorbing essential water and nutrients, and providing a strong foundation for the rest of the root system and the developing shoot.

Micropyle

During germination, it facilitates the absorption of water, a critical step for the Embryo to become active. The opening also allows for the entry of oxygen, which is essential for the embryo's respiration, and provides a pathway for nutrients to reach the developing seedling By allowing these vital substances to enter, it helps the embryo break dormancy and initiate growth.

Endosperm

Serves as a food reserve for the growth of the embryo, supplying it with energy and nutrients like starch, oils, and proteins

Cotyledons

The primary role of it is to store large amounts of food including starches, fats, and proteins during the initial stages of germination, when the embryo cannot produce its own food yet. It provides the necessary energy for growth. In a lima bean, which is a dicot, this structure emerge from the soil and act as the first leaves the nourishment from the part of the seed that allows the young plant to establish its roots and develop true leaves before it is capable of sustaining itself independency through photosynthesis

Step 1

The seed coat protects the embryo while it’s dormant

Step 2

Water enters through the micropyle, softening the seed coat and activating the embryo.

Step 3

The endosperm and cotyledons provide stored food to help the embryo grow.

Step 4

The radicle emerges first, becoming the primary root that anchors the plant.

Step 5

The hypocotyl elongates and pushes the seedling upward through the soil.

Step 6

The epicotyl grows next, carrying the plumule (young shoot) upward.

Step 7

The seed coat falls off, and the cotyledons open, feeding the seedling until the leaves form.

Step 8

The plumule unfolds into true leaves that begin photosynthesis, making the plant independent.