Seed Dormancy

Normally when environmental conditions are favourable a seed will begin to germinate, but in some cases a seed can remain dormant even though the conditions are perfect for germination.

Why? To delary germination. Why? To cause germination to be staggered which allows seeds to travel different distances before they germinate. This ensures a wide geographical spread so that seeds germinate at different times, protecting some of the seedlings against short periods of inclement weather or passing herbivores.

Why?

To delary germination.

Why?

To cause germination to be staggered which allows seeds to travel different distances before they germinate. This ensures a wide geographical spread so that seeds germinate at different times, protecting some of the seedlings against short periods of inclement weather or passing herbivores.

Some seeds can germinate after 2000 years of dormancy!

Primary dormancy
Secondary dormancy
Cost imposed dormancy
Embryo dormancy

Information

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  • Funded as part of the Scottish Funding Council's curriculum development unit cost model project. Developed by the Educational Development Unit, University of the Highlands and Islands.

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