noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
seedless; seedlessness
Describes fruit or plants that have no seeds. Often used in compounds like 種なしスイカ (seedless watermelon).
このスイカは種なしで食べやすい。
This watermelon is seedless and easy to eat.
種なしブドウは子供に人気がある。
Seedless grapes are popular with children.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
lacking the means; without the necessary material
Figurative use: lacking the essential ingredient or resource to accomplish something. Often used in set phrases like 種なしでは話にならない (without the material, it's hopeless).
資金が種なしでは、新しい事業は始められない。
Without capital, we can't start a new business.
アイデアが種なしでは、企画書も書けない。
Without ideas, I can't even write a proposal.
種 means 'seed' or 'source'; 種なし is the negative form meaning 'without seeds' or 'lacking the source'.
Compound of 種 (tane, 'seed') + なし (nashi, 'without'). The figurative sense extends the idea of lacking a seed or source material.