Page 67 - ICSE Science 3 : E-book

Germination

Germination is the process by which a seed starts to
Did You Know!
grow into a new plant. When a seed is sown into the
Some seeds need light
moist soil, it starts to grow under suitable conditions.
to germinate while
A seed requires good quality soil, oxygen, water, some others need

warm temperature, and sunlight for its growth. Seed darkness.
germination takes place in the following steps.

• First, the seed takes in water from the soil through a tiny hole present on the
seed coat. It makes the seed swell and the seed coat splits.

• A tiny root starts to grow deep downwards in the soil while a shoot grows

upwards towards light.

• Soon a seedling with tiny leaves comes out of the ground.

• Finally, the seedling of a plant grows into a new plant.

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Germination of a seed

All seeds do not grow. Environmental conditions like fl ooding or heat can kill the
seeds before or during the germination process. Some seeds are eaten by birds

and animals. Some seeds take a little longer time than others to grow. Some are
even carried to diff erent places by rain or wind where they grow into new plants.

Care of Plants

We already know that plants are very important for our survival. We depend
directly or indirectly upon plants for various purposes. So, we should understand

their importance and take care of them to save our life and environment. This can
be done in the following ways at home and at public places.

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