A seed in its dormant state

1047. A seed in its dormant state, Dr. Lindley observes, 'maybe regarded as a highly carbonised body, possessing vitality, and capable of growing into a plant.' (Elements of Botany, 5th edit. p. 114.) If the seed be properly ripe when gathered, and be kept perfectly dry, its vitality may be suspended, without being destroyed, for an indefinite length of time; but 'if its chemical elements are unstably combined, their vitality is quickly lost.' (Ibid.)