Growing season
/ˈɡroʊɪŋ ˈsizən/
Definition
Growing season refers to the part of the year when environmental conditions let plants actively grow. It usually means temperatures are warm enough, daylight is sufficient, and water is available for new leaves, stems, roots, flowers, or fruit to develop. In gardening and agriculture, it is distinct from the frost-free period because some plants begin or continue growth outside strictly frost-free dates.
Practical Relevance
- Timing of active growth: During the growing season, plants put more energy into new leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and fruit, so water and nutrient demand usually rises.
- Limits set by climate: Length and timing depend mainly on temperature, light, and frost patterns. In mild regions it can be long, while in cold climates it may be short and sharply bounded.
- Planning sowing and harvest: Gardeners use the growing season to match crops and ornamentals to local conditions, especially for seed starting, transplanting, flowering, fruit ripening, and harvest timing.
- Dormancy and rest periods: Outside the growing season, many plants slow down or enter dormancy, a resting state with reduced growth. This shift affects pruning, feeding, and watering decisions.
Related Terms
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Vernalization
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