Which type of plant sprouts from seed in the spring and dies before winter?

The correct choice refers to summer annuals, which are characterized by their life cycle that begins with germination in the spring. These plants grow, flower, and produce seeds throughout the warm months, completing their entire lifecycle within a single growing season. By the time winter arrives, summer annuals have withered and died, as they are not adapted to survive lower temperatures or frost conditions.

Understanding the growth patterns of summer annuals helps in managing them effectively in agricultural settings, especially for controlling their emergence and maximizing crop yields. This knowledge is crucial for effective weed management strategies in Oregon agriculture, where understanding seasonal patterns can significantly impact herbicide application timing and effectiveness.