Picture by Deobra

Plants start off as seeds, and grow from the ground.  They put out roots first, then stems and leaves.  They get nourishment from water and from photosynthesis, using sunlight for energy.  Flowers are for pollination, and fruits and nuts are actually seeds and the surrounding plant.  Some plants live for only a few days or weeks, while some trees can live for over a thousand years.

During a plant's life cycle, it grows, flowers, and then sets seed. There are three kinds of plants:  annuals, perennials, and biennials.

An annual goes through its life cycle in one year. Some annuals are petunias and tomatoes.

A perennial lives for at least three years, and can live for longer. Some perennials are roses and daisies.

A biennial goes through two growing seasons to complete its life cycle. It grows leaves during one season. That's called vegetating. Then it lies dormant. That means that it sleeps or rests. During the second season it grows flowers, sets seed, and dies. Carrots are biennials.

Science Fun:  Take a small clear plastic cup and fill it about 2/3 of the way full with rich dirt. Don't use sand or clay! Plant a lima bean about ½" deep in the dirt. Water it carefully as often as it needs it. Be careful not to water it too much or too little. Keep a journal and mark down when changes happen. You'll see the whole plant life cycle as your lima bean plant grows!