ver·nal·i·za·tion
ˌvər-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən 
: the act or process of hastening the flowering and fruiting of plants by treating seeds, bulbs, or seedlings so as to induce a shortening of the vegetative period
ver·nal·ize
ˈvər-nə-ˌlīz
-ed/-ing/-s
: to hasten the flowering and fruiting of (plants) by treating seeds, bulbs, or seedlings by a method (as exposing sometimes partially sprouted seed to low or high temperatures for a period) that induces a shortening of the vegetative period : jarovize
Examples of vernalization in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026
The horticultural importance of vernalization – cold exposure to induce flowering or other physiological processes – is not restricted to deciduous fruit trees.
—Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 12 Apr. 2025
These biennial plants produce seeds only in their second year, after a period of vernalization, or cold storage.
—Jessica Damiano, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Sep. 2022
The gift of flavor that vernalization produces is shared by many winter crops.
—Jonathan Kauffman, Bon Appétit, 13 Apr. 2022
The onset of vernalization, or dormancy, is triggered by a plant hormone, then fruit-bearing vines, trees and canes begin to rest.
—Margaret Lauterbach, idahostatesman, 21 Feb. 2018
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Noun
Many gardeners love tulips but lack the necessary cold winter conditions for vernalization.
—Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026
The horticultural importance of vernalization – cold exposure to induce flowering or other physiological processes – is not restricted to deciduous fruit trees.
—Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 12 Apr. 2025
These biennial plants produce seeds only in their second year, after a period of vernalization, or cold storage.
—Jessica Damiano, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Sep. 2022
The gift of flavor that vernalization produces is shared by many winter crops.
—Jonathan Kauffman, Bon Appétit, 13 Apr. 2022
The onset of vernalization, or dormancy, is triggered by a plant hormone, then fruit-bearing vines, trees and canes begin to rest.
—Margaret Lauterbach, idahostatesman, 21 Feb. 2018
Cite this Entry
“Vernalization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vernalization. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
