Question

How long may seeds remain dormant in the ground?

Answer 1

Seeds can remain dormant in the ground for several months to hundreds of years. The longevity of seed dormancy depends on the species of the seed and its surrounding conditions. Seeds that are well-preserved and kept in optimal conditions can remain viable for a longer period of time.

Answer 2

The length of time that seeds can remain dormant in the ground varies depending on the species of plant. Some seeds can remain dormant for only a few months, while others can remain dormant for many years. The oldest known seed to germinate was over 1,000 years old.

There are a number of factors that can affect the length of time that a seed remains dormant. These factors include the temperature, moisture, and light conditions of the soil. Seeds that are buried deep in the soil are more likely to remain dormant for longer periods of time than seeds that are near the surface. Seeds that are exposed to light are also more likely to germinate than seeds that are kept in the dark.

The length of time that a seed remains dormant is also affected by the species of plant. Some plants, such as trees, have seeds that are designed to remain dormant for long periods of time. These seeds are often buried deep in the soil and are exposed to harsh conditions. The long dormancy period helps to ensure that the seeds will only germinate when the conditions are right for the plant to survive.

In some cases, seeds may remain dormant in the ground for so long that they eventually die. However, in many cases, the seeds will eventually germinate and produce new plants.