What Happens When Plants are Dormant

When plants go dormant, particularly in a four-season climate, it's a rest period essential for their health and vitality. This dormancy phase, often misunderstood, especially by those from tropical climates accustomed to year-round greenery, is not a time of inactivity but rather a crucial preparatory stage.

Underneath the ground, plants are not entirely inactive during dormancy. Instead, they are in a state of stasis, conserving energy and preparing for the vigorous growth and blooming that occur in spring. This period allows plants to endure the cold and shorter days of winter. Forsythia, for example, one of the first shrubs to bloom in spring, showcases a burst of golden yellow flowers. This magnificent display of blooms, followed by foliage, requires a significant amount of energy. After such an intense blooming period, these plants need time to recuperate and rebuild their energy reserves.

The dormancy phase is crucial for plants like lilac, rose of Sharon, forsythia, and peonies, which thrive in a four-season climate. They rely on this period of rest, characterized by short days and cold nights, to ensure their survival and prepare for the explosive growth and blooming in the spring. This cycle of rest and rejuvenation is a fundamental rhythm of nature, ensuring the health and beauty of these plants year after year.

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