Abstract: Dormancy mechanisms in cereals and oilseed crops were reviewed. Objective was to determine the causes of seed dormancy. The methods of control of seed dormancy were also reviewed and the following results were obtained. During seed dormancy, a mature embryo remains inactive but viable. An understanding of seed dormancy mechanisms can be helpful in optimizing the distribution of seed germination in time or space. Seed coats, cotyledons and growth hormones play an important role in maintaining seed dormancy. Seed dormancy can also be controlled by environment and genetic factors.