More In Depth to Germination

Germination requires multiple factors including: water/imbition, oxygen, temperature, sunlight, soil, the dormancy period, and the viability period.

Water/Imbition: Water allows the outer shell of the seed to soften and break for the seed to root and grow. Imbition occurs when the extremely dry mature seed and takes in significant amounts of water.

Oxygen: Required for metabolism by the germinating seed. Oxygen is utilized in aerobic respiration. This is the main source of the seedling's energy until it grows leaves.

Temperature: If it is too hot, the seed will whither. If it is too cold, the seed will freeze.

Sunlight: The amount of sunlight necessary for germination depends on the seed.

Soil: The pH of the soil helps soften the shell of the seed. This allows the root to grow. 

Dormancy Period: The seed rests and may refuse to germinate properly. This is required and the time varies depending on the seed.

Viability Period: This is the readiness after the dormancy period. The seed can eventually expire. After this, the seed will not germinate.