Scientists have recently made a breakthrough in uncovering the mysteries of alfalfa seed dormancy. It has long been known that alfalfa seeds can stay dormant for years, but the mechanisms behind this dormancy were unknown. Thanks to a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Tennessee, we now know more about the processes that keep alfalfa seeds dormant. The team discovered that alfalfa seeds contain a protein that helps to preserve the seed’s dormant state. This protein, called Oryza sativa germination-promoting factor (OGPF), is believed to be responsible for maintaining the dormancy of alfalfa seeds. This finding could have major implications for agricultural practices, as farmers could use this knowledge to better manage their crops.

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source: Phys.org