Germination, genetics, and growth of an ancient date seed
2,000-year-old date seed from Masada was successfully germinated in 2005
This landmark study documents the germination of a 2,000-year-old date palm seed from Masada, Israel - the oldest viable seed ever germinated. The research demonstrates the extraordinary dormancy capabilities of seeds and provides the opening example for the chapter's exploration of germination as a decision to break dormancy at the right time.
The study's treatment protocol (enzymatic fertilizer, plant hormones, controlled temperature cycling) illustrates that even the most dormant seeds can be triggered to germinate when the right environmental signals are provided. This parallels the book's thesis that startups, like seeds, need specific environmental conditions to successfully germinate.
Key Findings from Sallon et al. (2008)
- 2,000-year-old date seed from Masada was successfully germinated in 2005
- Seed required specific treatment protocol: enzymatic fertilizer, plant hormones, temperature cycling
- Sprouted after 8 weeks of treatment
- Represents first new growth from that genetic lineage in 2,000 years