What is required for successful germination of seeds?

Successful germination of seeds primarily requires water and temperature. Water is crucial as it activates the metabolic processes within the seed, allowing it to begin the transition from a dormant state to an active state. This process, known as imbibition, involves the seed absorbing moisture, swelling, and eventually breaking through its seed coat.

Temperature plays a pivotal role because most seeds have a range of temperatures within which they can germinate effectively. This range varies between species, but most seeds require warmth to stimulate the biochemical processes responsible for germination, such as enzyme activation and respiration.

Light can be a factor for some seeds, particularly those that require light to germinate, but it is not universally essential for all seeds. Similarly, while space, fertilizers, soil, and nutrients are important to support seedling growth and development after germination, they are not critical for the initial germination phase itself. Therefore, water and temperature are fundamental elements needed to initiate successful seed germination.