Dormancy: A period of inactivity in a plant, during which growth and metabolic activity slow down, usually in response to unfavorable environmental conditions like cold or drought.
Think of dormancy as a plant’s way of taking a long nap. When conditions become harsh, like during the winter or a dry season, some plants go into a state of suspended animation. They conserve energy by slowing down their growth and metabolic processes until more favorable conditions return. This allows them to survive periods that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.
In your home garden, understanding dormancy is important for proper plant care. For example, you wouldn’t fertilize a dormant plant because it’s not actively growing and can’t use the nutrients. Knowing when a plant is dormant helps you avoid unnecessary actions that could actually harm it. It’s also important to understand the specific dormancy requirements of different plants. Some might need a cold period to break dormancy, while others might be triggered by shorter days. Recognizing dormancy helps you time your gardening activities appropriately for the best results.
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