So of course plants are living things, but how exactly do seeds “work” per se. I dont garden at all, but I don’t remember ever seeing an expiration date on a seed packet. Are they able to remain alive for a long period of time, just dormant until they germinate, or is there something about the fertilizer and the water that causes them to “become” alive (which every instinct screams at me that that’s not the answer, but I’m not a botanist either)?
I hope this question makes sense to you all.
In: Biology
Tree seeds, such as those used to grow forestry tree seedlings for reforestation after logging operations, are frequently stored for decades. Partly because they just can be and also because it’s a big operation to have to helicopter and/or hike into the bush to get more. These are stored well below zero degrees Celsius – more like -18C. The ability of seeds to survive that long is based on a number of factors with one major one being the structure and integrity of the seed coat that surrounds it. Something with little protection like an avocado (referred to as Recalcitrant) will not survive long vs something with a heavy seed coat like date palm (referred to as Orthodox). The date palm is the one referenced in the story of the 2,000 year old seed.
Lotus seeds come to mind and are very Orthodox. Fun project – If you get a decorative lotus pod from a florist or an dry flower arrangement, those little seeds in the pod will readily germinate with a bit of mechanical help.
Latest Answers