Seedling

A young plant that has developed from a seed, typically after germination and before maturity. Its early growth depends on stored seed reserves and, once leaves develop, photosynthesis.

Germination: The resumption of growth by a seed embryo under suitable conditions, leading to emergence from the seed. Germination begins the seedling's development.
Seed: A plant reproductive structure containing an embryo, a supply of nutrients, and a protective covering. A seed contains the embryo that develops into a seedling.
Nursery (horticulture): A place where young plants are propagated and grown before planting elsewhere. Nurseries raise seedlings under managed conditions before transplanting.
Epigeal germination: Germination in which the hypocotyl lifts the cotyledons above the soil surface. This pattern places cotyledons in the light after emergence.
Radicle: The embryonic root that emerges first during seed germination. It anchors the seedling and begins water uptake.
Plant embryo: The young plant within a seed, comprising embryonic organs and a growth axis. The embryo supplies the seedling's initial body plan.
Transplanting: Moving a growing plant from one site or container to another. Seedlings are often transplanted once they can tolerate handling and establish roots.
Hypogeal germination: Germination in which cotyledons remain below the soil surface while the shoot emerges. It contrasts with seedlings that raise their cotyledons above ground.
Hypocotyl: The embryonic stem region below the cotyledons, which often elongates to lift them above ground. Its growth can carry the seedling's first leaves toward light.
Endosperm: A nutritive tissue in many seeds that supplies the developing embryo with food. Its stored nutrients can support early seedling growth.

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