A temporary period of reduced growth and activity in a plant, allowing it to survive unfavorable environmental conditions such as cold temperatures, drought, or seasonal changes.
During dormancy, a plant remains alive but pauses most active growth. Leaves may drop, stems may appear inactive, and little visible change occurs above ground. However, the plant continues to maintain living tissues and prepares for future growth when conditions improve.
Dormancy is triggered by environmental signals such as shorter days, cooler temperatures, or limited moisture. Once those conditions change, growth resumes and dormant buds begin to develop.
Many trees, shrubs, perennials, and even some seeds rely on dormancy as a survival strategy.
Dormancy explains many seasonal changes in the garden, including leaf drop, winter dieback, delayed spring growth, and the timing of flowering. Understanding dormancy helps gardeners avoid unnecessary watering, pruning, or plant removal when a plant is simply resting rather than dead. It also helps explain why many fruiting plants require winter chilling before they can grow and flower normally.