SEED

 

Seed
A seed is a mature, fertilized ovule that contains an embryo, stored food, and a protective seed coat. Under appropriate conditions (water, air, and temperature), a seed can germinate and grow into a new plant.

*Types of Seeds
Seeds can be categorized in various ways. The most common classifications are outlined below:

1.Based on Number of Cotyledons

   a) Monocotyledonous seeds (Monocots)
   Contain one cotyledon  
   Typically have endosperm as food storage  
   Leaves exhibit parallel venation  
   Examples: Rice, Wheat, Maize, Barley  
   b)Dicotyledonous seeds (Dicots)
   Contain two cotyledons  
   Food may be stored in cotyledons  
   Leaves display reticulate venation  
   Examples: Bean, Pea, Gram, Mustard  

2.Based on Presence of Endosperm

a)Endospermic (Albuminous) seeds
   Endosperm remains in the mature seed  
   Provides nourishment to the embryo  
   Examples: Maize, Rice, Coconut  

   b)Non-endospermic (Exalbuminous) seeds
   Endosperm is absent at maturity  
   Food is stored in cotyledons  
   Examples: Pea, Gram, Bean  

3.Based on Germination Behavior
   a) Epigeal germination  
   Cotyledons rise above the soil surface  
   Examples: Bean, Castor  
   b)Hypogeal germination
   Cotyledons stay below the soil surface  
   Examples: Pea, Maize  

4.Based on Economic Importance
   a) Cereal seeds – Rice, Wheat, Maize  
   b) Pulse seeds – Lentil, Gram, Pea  
   c) Oil seeds – Mustard, Sunflower, Groundnut  
   d) Vegetable seeds – Tomato, Brinjal, Cabbage  

5. Based on Seed Viability
   a) Orthodox seeds
   Can be dried and stored for extended periods  
   Examples: Wheat, Rice  
   b)Recalcitrant seeds  
   Cannot withstand drying or low temperatures  
 Examples: Mango, Jackfruit, Coconut  

*Conclusion 
Seeds are foundational to agriculture and plant reproduction. Understanding the various types of seeds aids in crop selection, storage, breeding, and enhancing agricultural productivity.