Multiple choice

To break dormancy in a seed with a rudimentary embryo one should

  1. soak the seeds to remove inhibitors

  2. break the seeds to remove inhibitors

  3. germinate the seeds under red light to promote germination

  4. none of these

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Seeds with rudimentary (underdeveloped) embryos require a period of after-ripening where the embryo matures to the point where germination can occur. Soaking removes inhibitors but doesn't help if the embryo isn't ready. Breaking the seed doesn't address embryo development. Red light promotes germination in mature seeds, not immature embryos. None of these methods work - the seed needs time for embryo maturation, not treatment.