1. Germination The first step of plant growth is germination. Germination is when the plant first starts to sprout into a seedling. Seeds need four things to germinate well: ∙ Light ∙ The right temperature ∙ Water ∙ Soil Some of these things may not seem necessary at first, but later it will become evident that they all affect the plants’ growth.

2. The Process of Germination Leaves grow on the plant. This process is called germination. Stem starts to grow. Roots start to sprout. The baby plant inside the seed, called the embryo, starts to sprout. Roots are fully grown and they help the plant stay upright. The seed coat (the hard outside layer of the seed) cracks and breaks away.

3. Necessities for Growth Plants can germinate without soil, but once they start growth, it is completely necessary. Soil provides nutrients, oxygen for the roots, and support for the plant. Water is one of the most important things needed for plants to germinate and grow well. Without it, the plant would shrivel, dry up and die. Light is also needed for growth. Without it, a plant would try to reach up for light, with no success, reach higher and higher until it became tall and spindly. Note: Plants can actually grow without soil, as long as we provide the things that soil creates for the plant (such as nutrients, oxygen and support). Warmth, or the right temperature, is another necessity for plants to germinate and grow well. If a seed was planted in a place too cold or too hot, the seed would not germinate.