Question

Why is stratification required?

Answer 1

Hint: Here stratification refers to seed stratification, which is a process where seed dormancy is broken. The process simulates/mimics the natural conditions that seeds would experience.

Complete answer:
- Germination is the process by which an organism starts growing from a seed.
- In nature, seeds require certain conditions to germinate such as water, oxygen, particular temperatures and sunlight.
- Seed dormancy is an evolutionary adaptation in seeds where they do not germinate due to absence of suitable environment/conditions.
- Seed stratification is the process of simulating the exact conditions required by seeds, which leads to breaking the dormancy and promoting germination.
- It is required so that seeds break their dormancy in nature.
- If dormancy is not broken, there is low probability of seedling survival.
- Some seeds require cold and wet treatment while others require warm and moist treatment. Also, there are some seeds that require a mix of both treatments.
- Hence, knowing what the seeds require to break dormancy is important.

Additional Information:
- After knowing the seed’s requirement, the right conditions can be created using the process of stratification and germination of the seed will be promoted.
- The process of stratification involves many factors such as - temperature modulation, choosing stratification medium, use of fungicide and methods of sowing the seeds as well.

Note: Knowing the definitions for terms such as germination, seed dormancy and seed stratification will help you score in questions like these. They are simple to answer, but make sure you write all the important points that are associated with the topic.