How do plants make seeds?

Plants produce seeds as a part of their reproductive process, ensuring the continuity of their species. While seed production happens in flowering plants and conifers, the process may vary for different types of plants. Here, we explain the stages and mechanism involved in seed production in flowering plants:

Stage 1: Pollination - Once the flower blooms, it needs to be pollinated to begin the process of seed production. Pollination can occur through self-pollination or cross-pollination, depending on the plant species. Self-pollinating plants fertilize themselves, whereas cross-pollinating plants require the intervention of external agents like wind, water, or insects.

Stage 2: Fertilization - The next stage is fertilization, where the sperm from pollen combines with the egg in the ovule to form a zygote. This process results in the formation of a seed embryo, which later develops into a mature seed.

Stage 3: Seed Development - The seed embryo develops within the ovules, and the ovules mature to become seeds. The seeds are composed of three parts - the embryo, endosperm, and seed coat. The embryo forms the developing plant, while the endosperm provides nutrition to the growing embryo. The seed coat protects the seed from damage and desiccation.

Thus, the process of seed production in plants involves intricate stages and mechanisms that ensure the continuity of their species.