Seed germination is the process by which a plant seed, under suitable environmental conditions, begins to grow and develop into a seedling. It marks the beginning of the plant’s life cycle and the transformation of a dormant embryo within the seed into an actively growing and photosynthesizing plant. The process of seed germination can be broken down into several key stages:

1. Water Uptake: The first step in germination is the absorption of water by the seed. Water softens the seed coat and activates enzymes that break down stored nutrients, preparing them for use by the growing embryo. The seed swells as it takes up water.
2. Activation of Enzymes: As water is absorbed, enzymes within the seed become active. These enzymes break down complex substances, such as starches and proteins, into simpler forms like sugars and amino acids that the embryo can use for energy and growth.
3. Respiration: With the activation of enzymes and the availability of energy-rich molecules, the embryo begins cellular respiration. This process releases energy that fuels the metabolic activities required for growth. During respiration, oxygen is taken in, and carbon dioxide is released.
4. Radicle Emergence: The radicle is the first part of the embryo to emerge from the seed. It is the embryonic root, and its primary function is to anchor the seedling to the soil and absorb water and nutrients.
5. Cotyledon Emergence: In some plants, the cotyledons, which are the seed leaves, emerge next. Cotyledons can serve as temporary storage organs for nutrients, and they provide initial energy for the seedling’s growth until true leaves develop. In other plants, the cotyledons remain within the seed coat, and the true leaves emerge directly.
6. Shoot Development: Following the emergence of the radicle and cotyledons, the shoot or stem begins to grow upward. As the shoot grows, it may eventually produce true leaves, which are the first leaves that resemble those of the mature plant. True leaves are essential for photosynthesis, as they contain chlorophyll.
7. Root Growth: Simultaneously with shoot development, the root system expands. Roots continue to absorb water and nutrients from the soil and anchor the growing seedling.
8. Photosynthesis: Once the seedling has true leaves, it can engage in photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into sugars and oxygen. This process provides the energy and organic molecules required for further growth.
9. Establishment: With the onset of photosynthesis and the development of a strong root system, the seedling becomes self-sustaining and no longer relies on stored reserves from the seed. It continues to grow into a mature plant.