vernalize

[ vur-nl-ahyz ]
/ ˈvɜr nlˌaɪz /

verb (used with object), ver·nal·ized, ver·nal·iz·ing.

to shorten the growth period of (a plant) by chilling or other special treatment of it, its seeds, or its bulbs.
Also especially British, ver·nal·ise.

Origin of vernalize

First recorded in 1820–30; vernal + -ize

OTHER WORDS FROM vernalize

ver·nal·i·za·tion, noun

Words nearby vernalize

vernal conjunctivitis, vernal equinox, vernal grass, vernal pool, vernalization, vernalize, vernation, vernazza, verne, verne, jules, verner

British Dictionary definitions for vernalization

vernalize

vernalise

/ (ˈvɜːnəˌlaɪz) /

verb

to subject ungerminated or germinating seeds to low temperatures, which is essential for many (plants) of temperate environments to ensure germination in some species and flowering in others

Derived forms of vernalize

vernalization or vernalisation, noun

Scientific definitions for vernalization

vernalization
[ vûr′nə-lĭ-zā′shən ]

The subjection of seeds or seedlings to low temperature in order to hasten plant development and flowering. Vernalization is commonly used for crop plants such as winter rye and is possible because the seeds and buds of many plants require cold in order to break dormancy.