What is the term for the sprouting of a seed and the commencement of its growth?

The term for the sprouting of a seed and the commencement of its growth is germination. This process marks the beginning of a plant's life cycle, as it involves the seed absorbing water, swelling, and then breaking through its outer seed coat, leading to the emergence of a shoot and root. Germination is a critical step in plant development, as it sets the foundation for further growth and establishment in the soil.

The other terms listed represent different concepts. Girdle refers to a practice in horticulture where a ring of bark is removed from a tree to stop nutrient flow; it does not pertain to seed growth. Geographic area describes a physical location, which does not relate specifically to the process of a seed sprouting. Ground cover refers to plants that grow close to the ground and effectively cover the soil, often used for erosion control or aesthetic purposes, not the initial growth phase of a seed.