Question

How does a farmer use dormancy of seed to his advantage?

Hint:

Dormancy + Dehydration = The basis of the "Seed Bank" and modern agriculture.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Seed dormancy is a state of suspended animation where the embryo remains inactive due to internal or external factors, even under favorable conditions.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Farmers utilize seed dormancy in the following ways:
1. Storage: Dehydration and dormancy are crucial for the storage of seeds. If seeds germinated immediately, they could not be kept for later use.
2. Food Source: Stored seeds serve as a food source throughout the year.
3. Future Crops: It ensures that seeds can be sown in the next growing season or even years later, maintaining agricultural cycles.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Dormancy is used by farmers to store seeds for food and for planting in the next season.