What type of plants germinate in the spring, grow, mature, produce seed, and die in summer or early fall?

The correct answer is summer annual because these plants have a life cycle that starts with germination in the spring. They grow, mature, and produce seeds all within a single growing season, typically during the warmer months of spring and summer. After they complete their life cycle by producing seeds, summer annuals die off in late summer or early fall.

In contrast, perennial plants grow back year after year, winter annuals germinate in the fall, grow over the winter, and mature in the spring, while biennials require two growing seasons to complete their life cycle. Thus, the distinct characteristics of summer annuals make them uniquely suited to thrive in the summer months, which is why this answer is accurate.