Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part I. Origins -- Plant life : a primer -- Molecules, metabolism and energy -- Genome organization and expression -- Cell architecture -- Part II. Germination -- Membrane transport and intracellular protein trafficking -- Seed to seedling : germination and mobilization of seed reserves -- Metabolism of reserves : respiration and gluconeogenesis -- Part III. Seedling emergence -- Light perception and transduction (HO/ST) -- Photosynthesis and photorespiration -- Part IV. Seedling growth and development -- Hormones and other signals -- The cell cycle and meristems -- Growth and development -- Mineral nutrient acquisition and assimilation -- Part V. Maturation -- Intercellular and long-distance transport -- Environmental interactions -- Part VI. Reproduction and senescence -- Flowering and sexual reproduction -- Development and dormancy of resting structures -- Senescence, ripening and cell death.