Bloeitiming

Bloeitiming is the timing of flowering in plants, representing the period when flower buds open and flowers become receptive to pollination. It is a central phenological trait that affects reproduction, yield, and ecological interactions.

The timing is determined by genetic factors and environmental cues, notably photoperiod and temperature. Plants may require vernalization or a certain number of chilling hours before they flower, while warm temperatures and adequate water can also accelerate bloom. Management practices such as nutrient supply and irrigation can influence bloom timing. Measurement often uses dates of first bloom, peak bloom, or full bloom, and can be expressed in calendar days or accumulated growing degree days.

Bloeitiming has practical importance in crop production, breeding for climate resilience, ornamental horticulture, and pollinator management. Synchrony with pollinators, risk of frost damage at bloom, and alignment with markets or harvest windows are central considerations.

Climate variability and climate change can alter bloeitiming, leading to phenological mismatches with pollinators or with fruit development stages. Studying bloom timing falls under plant phenology and is modeled using historical observations and climate data. Related terms include flowering time, phenology, vernalization, and chilling requirements.