The plant reproductive cycle involves two distinct multicellular phases, the gametophyte and the sporophyte. The gametophyte is the haploid stage in which the plant produces gametes, which are sex cells that fuse during fertilization to form a diploid zygote. In most plants, the gametophyte is a small, inconspicuous plant that is dependent on the sporophyte for nutrients and protection.
The sporophyte is the diploid stage in which the plant produces spores, which are asexual reproductive cells that can develop into new haploid gametophytes. The sporophyte is the dominant stage in the life cycle of most plants, and it is typically larger and more complex than the gametophyte. The sporophyte is also responsible for producing seeds, which are structures that protect and nourish the developing embryo.
In summary, the gametophyte produces haploid gametes, which fuse during fertilization to form a diploid zygote that develops into the sporophyte. The sporophyte, in turn, produces spores that can develop into new gametophytes, as well as seeds that protect and nourish the developing embryo.