Plants grow from seeds — Science, 4–6 years
A seed can begin the life of a new plant when it has water, air and the right warmth. Science, 4–6 years.
A seed is a plant’s beginning
Inside a seed is a tiny beginning of a plant, with food packed around it. When the seed gets water and warmth, a root can grow down and a shoot can grow up. Later, leaves catch light and help the young plant grow.
Why seeds need the right place
A seed cannot grow well just anywhere. It needs enough water, air and warmth, but too much water can leave no air around it, and too little water stops growth. These needs explain why gardeners choose where and when to plant.
Watch a bean seed
Put one bean between damp kitchen paper and the side of a clear glass. On day 1 it is hard and dry; by day 3 its coat may split; by day 5 a root may point down; by day 7 a green shoot may rise. Keep the paper damp, not flooded.
A seed is not a dead stone
A dry seed may look like a small stone, so it is easy to think that nothing is happening inside. It is resting, not dead: its growth is slowed until water and suitable warmth arrive. A seed can also fail to grow if it is damaged or lacks what it needs.
Seeds in gardens and food
People use seeds to grow plants for food, flowers and trees. A farmer may sow wheat seeds, while someone at home may grow peas in a pot. Many foods, such as beans, rice and sunflower seeds, are seeds or come from plants that began as seeds.
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