Plants and Seeds

Most plants begin as seeds. When seeds have the right amount of warmth, moisture, and air, they are ready to sprout or start growing. Day after day, they grow. Some seedlings grow into the vegetables and fruits that we eat, and other seedlings grow into tall trees.

Many of the foods we eat come from trees. For new trees to grow, seeds need to move. Seeds are transported in many ways! For example, a cocklebur might attach to your clothing as you walk through a field in the spring. You can blow the seeds off a dandelion. Some seeds grow inside pods. When the pods open, the seeds come out. Some animals, like this squirrel, carry seeds away and hide them. Water carries other seeds away.

How many foods with seeds come from trees? Some examples are apples, olives, peaches, and cherries. Can you name others?