* Pollination: The transfer of pollen from the anther (male part) of a flower to the stigma (female part) of the same or a different flower.
* Fertilization: After pollination, the pollen grain grows a pollen tube down the style of the pistil, delivering the sperm to the ovule (female egg) within the ovary. This is fertilization.
* Seed formation: Following fertilization, the ovule develops into a seed. The seed contains the embryo (the future plant), a food source (endosperm), and a protective coat (seed coat).
So, pollination is the essential first step, but fertilization is what actually leads to seed formation.