Reproduction vs. Germination of Seeds

Every plant germinates at a different rate and it is important to understand that when you are growing a garden. There are 3 major stages of germination, phase I, rapid water imbibition by seed; phase II, reactivation of metabolism; and phase III, radicle protrusion. Seeds remain dormant or inactive until conditions are right for germination. All seeds need water, oxygen, and proper temperature in order to germinate. Some seeds require proper light also. Some germinate better in full light while others require darkness to germinate. Don't get this confused with the reproduction of a plant. The difference between the two is, during fertilization, the fusion of two gametes takes place, producing the zygote that eventually becomes the embryo. The main difference between fertilization and germination is the mechanism of each event during reproduction. Germination is the development of a new plant whereas reproduction is completely different. The reproduction of soy is, R1 (beginning bloom, first flower), R2 (full bloom, flower in top two nodes), R3 (beginning pod, 3/16-inch pod in top four nodes), R4 (full pod, 3/4-inch pod in top four nodes), R5 (1/8-inch seed in top four nodes), R6 (full-size seed in top four nodes), R7 (beginning maturity, one mature pod), R8 (full maturity, 95 percent of pods on the plant are mature).7 45-65 days after planting the soybeans are ready to harvest. It takes about 2 days after planting for the soybeans to germinate. Germination happens after reproduction and understanding this is how a successful garden grows. Get informed before plantign a garden because every seed is different!