種

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 種 is read as たね and is a noun for a seed that can sprout or be stored for future planting.
• Basic usage: Sowing flower seeds in a garden appears in 花の種を庭へまく, while storing seed for the next year appears in 来年用の種を保存する.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Type with の and purpose with 用
  • Use 花の種 for the plant type and 来年用の種 for seed intended for a future season.
• Difference from 苗
  • It denotes the seed before sprouting and differs from 苗, a young plant grown enough to transplant.