The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Germination \Ger`mi*na"tion\, n. [L. germinatio: cf. F.
   germination.]
   The process of germinating; the beginning of vegetation or
   growth in a seed or plant; the first development of germs,
   either animal or vegetable.
   [1913 Webster]

   Germination apparatus, an apparatus for malting grain.
      [1913 Webster]