How does seed germination occur?
Observe the following animation to understand the germination of a bean:
- When germination begins, the radicle comes out first, heading towards the micropyle and piercing the testa.
- It enters the earth, producing the roots.
- The hypocotyl spreads and causes the seed to emerge from the soil.
- The cotyledons open. Due to the development of the plumule, above them, the epicotil appears and, below it, the hypocotyl, forming the stem.
- Cotyledons wilt and new leaves emerge on the stem.
This is a type of germination process, the one that elevates the cotyledons above the earth (epigeal germination), but sometimes the cotyledons remain under the earth, as happens with the beans (hypogeal germination).
More information on germination
This article was endorsed by Vicente Martínez Centelles - Founder of the web and director. Teacher of natural sciences, expert in plants, natural remedies and botanical photography.
Written by Daniel M. Bou Illustrator of botany, animals and nature in general, computer engineer and technical manager.
6 December, 2020
