Why discuss the methods and structures of plant reproduction?

Over 50 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies every year. Each spring, summer, and fall, trees, weeds, and grasses release tiny pollen grains into the air. Some of the pollen ends up in your nose and throat. This can trigger a type of allergy called hay fever.

Symptoms can include

• Sneezing, often with a runny or clogged nose
• Coughing and post-nasal drip
• Itching eyes, nose and throat
• Red and watery eyes
• Dark circles under the eyes

The pollen that causes these allergies is an essential part of plant reproduction (at least, sexual reproduction in plants). Let’s learn what role these irksome particles play in the plant life cycle.