The term vernalization in relation to greenhouse crops refers to which process?

Vernalization is a crucial process in the cultivation of certain greenhouse crops, particularly those that require a cold treatment to trigger flowering. This process involves exposing plants or seeds to a period of cool temperatures, which stimulates the physiological changes necessary for flower bud development. By experiencing this cold period, plants are better prepared to flower when conditions become favorable, such as with the return of warmer temperatures in spring.

This process is particularly important for biennial plants that do not flower in their first year but need the chilling exposure to complete their life cycle successfully. It ensures that flowering occurs at the optimal time for pollination and seed production. Thus, understanding vernalization is essential for growers aiming to manipulate flowering times and improve yields in greenhouse environments.