What occurs during the reproductive growth stage?

During the reproductive growth stage, the primary focus of the plant shifts towards producing flowers and subsequently seeds. This stage marks the culmination of the plant's life cycle where energy and resources are allocated towards reproduction rather than vegetative growth. As a result, seasonal growth slows down to allow the necessary nutrients and energy to be utilized in the flowering and seed production processes. This is a critical phase for plant reproduction, ensuring the continuation of the species through the successful creation of seeds, which contain the genetic material for the next generation.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately depict the events of the reproductive growth stage. Fertilization may occur during this stage, but it's not the primary defining feature compared to the production of seeds. While roots developing taproots is an aspect of early growth, it typically pertains to earlier growth stages in a plant's life cycle, rather than during reproduction. Lastly, water absorption changes may occur throughout various growth stages, but increased water absorption is not specifically characteristic of the reproductive stage. Overall, option B appropriately encapsulates the essence of what happens during the reproductive growth stage.