How Seeds Germinate
This is how a plant comes out of a seed.
 | The dry seed is dormant |
 | The seed is in a moist environment. It swells, absorbing water |
 | A root begins to grow out of the seed |
 | The stem begins to come out of the seed |
 | The stem grows and begins to lift the seed. Secondary roots are growing too |
 | The stem continues to lift the seed. The seed coat is slipping off. The roots continue to grow. |
 | The young plant is free of the seed coat. It is beginning to unfold its seed leaves, the cotyledons. The roots keep on growing. |
 | The cotyledons open to catch the sunlight. Between them, a bud gives promise that true leaves will soon appear. Note continued root growth to support the leaves. |
 | The true leaves have opened, and the plant is off to a good start. The growing tip continues to push upward. More leaves will open soon. Vigorous root growth promises healthy continued development. |
