The Dunya gives us the illusion of everlasting beauty. However, the temporary nature of this world is that it’s beautiful, then it dies, just like the rain that falls, stays for a little, then goes back up.
Allah highlights the delusion/illusion of power. You think you're in control when it’s Allah in control. No one can be in control except him.
We think we control when the plant dies or grows, but only Allah decides. If he doesn't want it to grow, there's nothing you can do.