Page 46 - The Miracle In The Seed

THE MIRACLE IN THE SEED

and fruit of every kind. There is certainly a sign in that for people
who reflect. (Qur’an, 16:10-11)

Reasons for the Different Sizes of Seeds

The size of seeds, as well as other features of plants, is determined
in accordance with a plan. The coconut, for instance, which travels
long distances by sea, is one of the biggest seeds. Its size ensures that
there are enough nutrients to last during the long journey.
Orchids, on the other hand, have quite tiny seeds. Orchids are de-
licate plants that can only grow when the right medium, light and mo-
isture conditions are available. Thus they produce seeds small enough
to be carried by the wind and numerous enough to be deposited in at
least some suitable locations. A single orchid flower can produce milli-
ons of seeds. 16
The seeds of the beech tree, shown in the picture below left, are
dispersed and start wafting through the air towards the end of au-
tumn. These small seeds some 0.5 cm (0.2 in) in length sprout wherever
there is enough light.
Tropical seeds are often very bulky. The mommay, shown below
right, is one of these, with seeds usually about 5 cm (2 in) long. This se-
ed can put down especially long roots to enable it to germinate in dry
places. This reduces the risk of the seedling drying out due to lack of
water. 17