Dormancy
A biological state in which plant growth and metabolic activity are suspended or slowed down to survive adverse environmental conditions.
Также говорят: plant rest period, biological rest, quiescence
Dormancy is a critical adaptive mechanism that allows plants to conserve energy and increase cold tolerance. By ceasing vegetative growth, crops transition their internal chemistry to withstand environmental stress, which is essential for ensuring healthy development in the following season.
A common mistake in agricultural management is applying high nitrogen rates or irrigation too late in the season, which encourages succulent growth and prevents the plant from hardening off. Failure to respect the dormancy period often leads to winter injury, decreased crop yield, and susceptibility to pests or diseases during the subsequent growth cycle.