The present application pertains to compositions for enhancing or controlling the germination of seeds. The compositions comprise i) a transition metal catalyst such as nanoparticulate catalyst bearing one or more transition metals, a carbon nanotube impregnated with Fe, Cu, Mo, Rh or Co, or a transition metal salt (FeSO4, CuSO4 or a cobalt salt) and ii) an oxidant such as hydrogen peroxide. The composition may further comprise a buffer. Methods of enhancing or controlling the germination of seeds using the composition are also disclosed.
