Seeds are relatively important in a more primal form of dispersal and reproduction among gymnosperm and angiosperm plants. It is a matured ovule of these plants.

Because of a plant's limited ability to find beneficial conditions for its life and development, they have evolved and used seeds to scatter and populate their species. A seed needs to arrive at a critical time before it can germinate and grow. It serves as a delaying mechanism in order for dispersal to occur and helps in the survival of unfavorable conditions such as cold, dryness or both. A plant produces numerous seeds to increase the probability of its dispersal and germination success. A fern disperses using spores. Seeds, compared to spores, need more energy and resources for its production.