RÉSUMÉ
Dormancy in seeds is defined as the failure of seeds to germinate despite the presence of all necessary conditions for germination. It is caused by the impermeability of the hard seed coat or a lack of availability and activity of germination-essential enzymes. Seeds undergo a variety of physical and chemical pre-treatments to break their dormancy. It results into lower seed germination rate and poor growth. To overcome this drawback various treatments are given to the seeds before sowing this study reviews some of the pre-sowing practices and the effects they have on seed germination and growth. Scientists are quite concerned about seed dormancy; hence it is a research topic of interest to develop an effective solution. All viable seeds are capable of germinating if the proper pre-sowing treatment is used.