imbibition

In botany, imbibition is the process by which a seed absorbs water. This absorption is crucial for germination, allowing the embryo within the seed to rehydrate and expand its cells. Following imbibition, the seed's metabolic processes resume, and respiration increases, signaling the start of growth. This process can be hindered if the seed coat is too tough or if germination inhibitors are present and not leached away by water. Imbibition is a fundamental step in a plant's life cycle, enabling the transition from a dormant seed to a developing seedling.12