vernalize

[ vur-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, ver·nal·ized, ver·nal·iz·ing.

1. to shorten the growth period of (a plant) by chilling or other special treatment of it, its seeds, or its bulbs.

vernalize

/ ˈvɜːnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. 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

• ˌvernaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• vernal·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of vernalize¹

First recorded in 1820–30; vernal + -ize