Determinacy
A biological trait of plants to cease the growth of the main stem after developing a specific number of inflorescences.
Также говорят: determinate growth, limited growth, self-topping
Determinacy refers to the growth habit of crops such as tomatoes, beans, and soybeans, where the main stem stops elongating after reaching a genetically programmed limit. This allows the plant to focus energy on uniform fruit maturation, which is ideal for mechanized harvesting.
Selecting determinant varieties is essential for short-growing seasons and areas prone to early frosts to ensure crop maturity before the cold hits. A common mistake is applying excessive nitrogen late in the season, which can stimulate unwanted vegetative growth and delay harvest maturity.