vernalization

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noun

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

vernalize

ˈvər-nə-ˌlīz 

transitive verb

vernalize

2 of 3

transitive verb (1)

ver·​nal·​ize ˈvər-nə-ˌlīz 

-ed/-ing/-s

: to make vernal : give freshness to

vernalize

3 of 3

transitive verb (2)

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

Noun

Then, throughout the cold of winter, the garlic goes through the process of vernalization. — Heather Bien, The Spruce, 3 Sep. 2026

Many gardeners love tulips but lack the necessary cold winter conditions for vernalization. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026

Moreover, seeds of many species, especially those native to cold climates, require vernalization to germinate. — 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

Word History

Etymology

Noun

vernal + -ization (as translation of Russian jarovizacija)

Transitive verb (2)

International Scientific Vocabulary vernal + -ize

First Known Use

Noun

1933, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for vernalization

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration