Question
Hi - I have a very simple question....does some part of the plant, or seed HAVE TO/BY NECESSITY die in order for the seed to grow into a new plant. thanks Pete

Answer
The answer is yes. When a plant goes to seed, it is completing its life cycle for that year. That is why it is important to deadhead flowers on annuals in order for it to keep producing. Even with perennials, it is best to shear the plants so that the plant expends its energy into root production and foliage growth rather than producing seed.

In short, a plant does not die completely if one branch or vine is allowed to go to seed.  But if the entire plant goes to seed, the plant will either die (annuals) or stop growing (perennials).