Short answer
Fertilization is the union of sperm and egg that starts a new embryo. Germination happens later, when a mature seed resumes growth and produces a seedling. A seed can remain dormant after fertilization, so the two events may be separated by months or longer. 1 2
Fertilization creates a new embryo; germination begins growth of an already formed embryo in a seed.
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At a glance
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| Question | Fertilization | Germination |
|---|---|---|
| What begins? | New embryo | Seedling growth |
| Where in sequence? | Before mature seed | After seed matures and conditions permit |
| Typical condition | Gametes meet | Seed has water and suitable conditions |
The table summarizes the cited definitions and the article’s stated scope. 1 2
What each thing is
Fertilization. Union of reproductive cells to form a zygote that can develop into a plant embryo. 1
Germination. Resumption of growth of a viable seed embryo into a seedling under suitable conditions. 2
Key differences
In flowering plants, pollination delivers pollen; fertilization follows inside the ovule. The resulting embryo develops within a seed. Germination is not another fertilization event—it uses the embryo and resources already present. 1 2
How to tell them apart
If the event involves union of gametes, it is fertilization. If a stored or planted seed sprouts a root or shoot, it is germination. Look at which stage of the plant life cycle is being discussed. 1 2
Where they overlap
Both contribute to the next plant generation. A fertile seed can later germinate, and factors affecting seed formation influence how many seeds are available to sprout. 1 2
Edge cases
Some seeds can form without ordinary fertilization through apomixis; a seed can also fail to germinate. Not all plants reproduce by seeds, so this article is scoped to seed plants. 1 2
Why the distinction exists
Botanists separate embryo formation from seedling establishment because the biological mechanisms and environmental constraints differ. 1 2
Common misconceptions
Planting a seed does not fertilize it. The seed’s embryo was formed earlier; planting gives it an opportunity to germinate. 1 2
Examples
After pollen enables gamete union in a flower, an embryo develops: fertilization has occurred. When that seed later sprouts in moist soil, it germinates. 1 2
Sources
Sources checked October 3, 2026.
- OpenStax — Pollination and Fertilization. Pollination; Seed germination; Fruit and seed dispersal.
- University of Minnesota Extension — Starting Seeds Indoors. Planting and growing seeds.