Seeds need water, oxygen, and warmth to germinate and begin the life cycle of a flower. The root grows down and the stem grows up toward light during germination. The stem and leaves continue to grow until the flower is fully mature and able to be pollinated to produce seeds. Pollination is often helped by insects, wind, or animals, and fertilization occurs when pollen reaches the inside of another flower, allowing seeds to form. Mature seeds are dispersed by various means and may start the new life cycle again if they find suitable conditions in the soil.