by Lois Scott, Master Gardener

I don’t know about you but when I am listening to people talk about specialized topics it can seem like they are speaking a different language. 

Gardeners and gardening can be like that! 
So welcome to the first edition of Garden Jeopardy.

You can learn about or review a few terms and definitions and then “dazzle” your friends and family with your seed starting knowledge and vocabulary!

The process by which a plant grows from a seed into a seedling. 
What is germination?

Optimal water, oxygen and proper temperature. 
What are the conditions a seed needs for germination?

The absorption of water by a seed.  
What is imbibition?

The part of a seed which acts as a food source for the developing plant embryo. 
What is the endosperm?

The first leaf or one of the first pair of leaves developed by the embryo of a seed. 
What is a cotyledon?

The part of a plant embryo that develops into the primary root.  
What is a radicle?

The process by which plants use sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar. 
What is photosynthesis?

A sterile, lightweight, free from weed seed product that is usually composed of vermiculite and peat or coir with no true soil in it. 
What is a soil-less seed starting mixture?

The process in which seedlings/plants grow leggy (long), pale and yellowed due to insufficient light. 
What is etiolation?

A disease of young seedlings caused by certain fungi and water mold that thrive in cool, wet conditions.  Providing constant warmth under seedlings can help prevent this. 
What is damping off? 
Learn how to prevent damping off!

The process of allowing a plant to transition from a protected indoor area to the harsh outdoor conditions of fluctuating temperatures, wind and full sun. 
What is hardening off?
Learn how to harden off!

Moving a plant into the garden so it can continue to grow. 
What is transplanting or planting out?

Thanks for playing!