Vernalisation is

Options

A. growth curve related to light
B. effect of photoperiods · of plant growth
C. speeding up ability to flower by low tem- perature treatment
D. diurnal photoperiodicity

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Vernalisation**: Vernalisation is the process by which flowering in plants is induced or accelerated by exposure to prolonged periods of low temperatures. This is particularly important for plants that have adapted to environments with harsh winters.

2. **Purpose of Vernalisation**: The main purpose of vernalisation is to ensure that flowering occurs in spring when conditions are more favorable for growth and reproduction. This adaptation allows plants to synchronize their flowering with the optimal growing season.

3. **Mechanism of Vernalisation**: During vernalisation, young plants or seeds are subjected to cold temperatures, which triggers physiological changes that promote flowering. This process essentially prepares the plant for the flowering stage once warmer temperatures return.

4. **Relation to Other Terms**: Vernalisation is sometimes confused with other terms like "germination" or "photoperiodism," but it specifically refers to the cold treatment that leads to flowering. Other related terms include "germination" (the process of seed sprouting) and "photoperiodism" (the response of plants to the length of day and night).

5. **Conclusion**: In summary, vernalisation is the process of speeding up the ability of plants to flower through low-temperature treatment, which is crucial for their reproductive success in climates with distinct seasonal changes.