Seeds come in many shapes and sizes and planting them is the first step in a tree's life cycle. For germination to occur, the seed needs water, oxygen, and the right temperature in order to sprout roots and a shoot. As the tree grows, it develops a trunk, branches, leaves, and other parts. Leaves perform photosynthesis to make food for the tree using carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight. Roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil to support the tree.