An undeveloped growth point on a plant that can develop into a new shoot, leaf, or flower when conditions are favorable.
Buds are the plant's way of preparing for future growth. Inside each bud is a small cluster of developing tissues waiting to expand into new stems, leaves, or flowers.
Many buds remain inactive during dormancy, especially through winter. As temperatures warm and growing conditions improve, buds begin to open and produce new growth.
Some buds develop into leafy shoots, while others become flowers. On many fruit trees, flower buds are responsible for the blooms that eventually produce fruit.
Understanding buds helps gardeners make better decisions about pruning and plant care. Removing the wrong buds can reduce flowering or fruit production, while cutting above the right bud can direct new growth where it's wanted. Bud development also helps explain how plants respond to dormancy and seasonal changes.