Definition

The process of exposing seeds or young plants to cold temperatures to help them grow and flower more quickly.

Example

Vernalization is important for certain plants to ensure they bloom at the right time in spring.

Conversation

Have you heard about vernalization in gardening?

Yeah, it’s interesting how cold can actually help plants bloom faster.

I didn't know it could speed up flowering like that!

Right? It's a cool technique for getting the most out of your garden.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vernalization → It is formed from "vernalis" (from Latin, meaning spring) and "-ization" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating a process). The word refers to the process of inducing flowering in plants by exposure to a period of cold, mimicking the conditions of spring.

Memory Tip

Think of 'spring' ('vernalis') and the process of making plants bloom — that's what vernalization means.

Visually Confused Words