Dormancy

Definition

Dormancy is a state in which a plant temporarily stops growing and reduces its metabolic activities to conserve energy. This often occurs in response to adverse environmental conditions such as extreme temperatures or insufficient water supply.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dormancy helps plants survive unfavorable conditions by minimizing growth and conserving resources.
2. There are two main types of dormancy: seed dormancy and bud dormancy.
3. Seed dormancy can be broken by environmental cues like temperature changes, light exposure, or water availability.
4. Bud dormancy typically ends with the return of favorable conditions such as increased temperature and daylight.
5. Hormones like abscisic acid (ABA) play a crucial role in inducing and maintaining dormancy.

Review Questions

• What are the primary environmental triggers that cause dormancy in plants?
• How do hormones influence the process of dormancy?
• What is the difference between seed dormancy and bud dormancy?

Related terms

Abscisic Acid (ABA): A plant hormone that plays a key role in inducing and maintaining dormancy.

Germination: The process by which a dormant seed resumes growth when conditions become favorable.

Photoperiodism:

The physiological reaction of organisms to the length of day or night, affecting processes like flowering and dormancy.