Order the botanical growth stages from earliest to latest, starting from propagation to the formation of the crop. 1. Crop 2. Root 3. Stem 4. Seed 5. Flower

Introduction / Context:
Sequencing in plant development hinges on germination followed by organ development and reproductive stages. The “crop” is the harvestable outcome, so it must be the terminal stage.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• 4 Seed starts the life cycle.
• 2 Root emerges first during germination.
• 3 Stem develops next, supporting foliage and buds.
• 5 Flower is the reproductive structure.
• 1 Crop denotes the harvestable product, post-flowering/fruiting as relevant.

Concept / Approach:
Follow biological chronology: germination → vegetative organs → reproductive organ → yield.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) 4 Seed germinates.2) 2 Root emerges to anchor/absorb.3) 3 Stem grows to support leaves/buds.4) 5 Flower forms enabling pollination.5) 1 Crop represents the final harvestable stage.

Verification / Alternative check:
Any ordering with crop before flowering or seed is biologically inconsistent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a),(b),(c) misplace seed or crop; (e) swaps stem/root order.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “crop” as a plant organ; forgetting that roots precede stem in germination.

Final Answer:
4 2 3 5 1