Seeds are embryonic plants enclosed in a seed casing. Once they are planted in the soil and conditions are right, they will start to germinate. When seeds have absorbed enough water, the seed will pop and a radicle will stretch out and form a root.
When the seed sprouts, the seedling stage begins. During this stage, the sprout will break through the surface of the soil. Seedlings are small and vulnerable to the elements.
In this stage, the plant is larger with more leaves but does not have the ability to reproduce. The adult plant is mature and ready to reproduce spores or flowers. Once pollinated, fruit-bearing plants will begin to grow fruit. Wind, birds and insects all help carry and spread seeds from the mature plants.
When a plant dies, it slowly decomposes turning into nutrients that can be used for other plants.