Seed dormancy and germination: physiological considerations

Abstract

The growing need to advance knowledge of the main processes involved in seed germination and development has become increasingly evident in recent years. When considering the seed germination process, some external and internal factors should be examined. Dormancy may be associated with internal factors, such as- hardness and impermeability of the integument to water and gases, immature embryos, inhibitors, and extrinsic factors such as temperature, light, humidity and substrate. Dormancy plays a relevant role: on the one hand, due to its ecological function, as it constitutes a survival mechanism of the species, ensuring its viability until the environmental conditions are adequate for seedling establishment and growth; on the other hand, it is an impediment to germination, damaging the large-scale production of plants. In this short communication, the biochemical and physiological factors related with dormancy and the germination process are discussed.