do you have to germinate a seed for it to grow.

If I understand your question correctly, meaning do you have to germinate it before you put it in the ground by placing the seeds on a wet paper towel for a couple of days or some such a thing then the answer is: no. you can just place the seeds in the ground. though you MAY have better luck if you germinate them before you put em in the ground.
but if you are wondering if the seeds need to germinate before growing into a plant then the answer is yes... as with any plant.
Peace Out

*Dooby Snacks*

get your seed \(its best to use bout 20-30 as some wont germinate)tie them up with tissue paper.
soak them under in water(yes,soak) then put it in your airing cupboard.
leave till dry.
repeat 2-3 times.
You will have handsome,strong shoots.