How does a seed grow into a flower?

Fascinating for both children and adults, the journey of a small seed into a plant almost seems magical. But there are very definite botanical processes at work that transform seeds into stunning flowers. Seeds Plants that begin as a seed and produce flowers are members of the angiOSperm family of plants. Each seed contains not only its parent plants' DNA, but also enough of its own nutrients to germinate. Germination When a seed is planted, a combination of water, warmth and soil provide the correct conditions for germination. As seeds absorb water, cells begin to function, metabolism begins and the seed germinates, or begins to grow. Roots The first structure to emerge from the seed embryo is a small root, which will anchor the seed in place and begin drawing in water and nutrients. As the root grows longer, it begins to produce lateral roots that grow sideways through the soil. Emerging Seedlings A small shoot also emerges from the germinating seed and grows up toward the soil's surface. The seedling's stem cells contain chlorophyll that begins to create additional food once the seedling breaks the surface and receives sunlight. Buds and Flowers As stems grow, leaves develop. When the plant has sufficient nutrients and energy, it will produce buds. Buds open into flowers, allowing the processes of pollination and fertilization to begin to produce the plant's seeds.