What is one metaphor the governor used in his "state of the state speech"

The "State of the state speech" was given by governor Nathan Deal. One metaphor that the governor used in his "State of the state speech" is: "Over the past seven years, we have endeavored to plant whole orchards of opportunity, some of which will not bear their largest fruits until those who come after us are sitting where you sit now." This metaphor was used as a comparison of policies to seedlings which require love and care to take root.