Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

My project is "Which Environmental Adjustment Has the Greatest Effect on Seed Germination?"
I am having some trouble with the details on my experimental design. This part of my project is not due to my teacher for a while, but I know I at least need the basics to know if I can even do this project.
At this point in time we are supposed to be doing background research, but I can't really seem to find what I need. I want to test different variables on seed germination, but in order to do that I need to know the normal environmental settings for a seed, such as amount of sunlight, amount of water, etc. I also (and this is probably the most important now) definitely need to know what type of seed to use. I know there are thousands of plants out there, but I need one that is basic and can stand as a representative of an every day seed.
Can anyone help me?

Hi,

Sounds like you've picked an interesting project! The 'normal' requirements for a seed are going to vary widely depending on the type of seed; whatever seed(s) you choose to use will probably come with instructions about depth, water amount, etc. and I would use those conditions as 'normal'.

As for which seed(s) to pick, I would pick something that will give you results relatively quickly. Here is an example of such a plant: http://www.fastplants.org/ . Please note that that that website is trying to sell you those plants and that Science Buddies cannot vouch for or endorse the site.

If you buy seeds in a store, definitely look at the germination time and pick something short so that you will have plenty of time to do your experiment.