Lepovaiheeseen

Lepovaiheeseen is a Finnish term used in biology and ecology to describe the state or process of entering dormancy, a period of reduced metabolic activity and halted or limited growth. It is commonly applied to plants, especially seeds, buds, and other perennating organs, but can also refer to similar dormant states in some fungi or microorganisms. The concept highlights a strategic pause that helps organisms survive unfavorable conditions, such as winter drought or cold, until environments become supportive again.

In plants, dormancy is a regulated state that is distinct from mere temporary inactivity caused by a lack of resources (quiescence). Dormancy is often maintained by hormonal signals, with abscisic acid promoting dormancy and gibberellins promoting germination or growth. Breaking dormancy typically requires specific cues, such as chilling or stratification, exposure to light or moisture, or physical or chemical scarification. In temperate woody plants, terminology distinguishes endodormancy (internal control) from ecodormancy (external conditions allowing growth if favorable).

Ecologically, dormancy allows synchronization with seasonal cycles, protects embryos or meristems from damage, and enhances survival across generations. In agriculture and horticulture, understanding and managing lepovaihe on seeds and buds is important for timing germination, flowering, and fruiting. Practical methods to overcome dormancy include cold stratification, scarification of hard seed coats, and sometimes chemical treatments or controlled environmental cues.

Usage notes: the phrase lepovaiheeseen appears in Finnish scientific and agricultural texts to indicate the process of entering a dormancy phase. It is a descriptive term rather than a formal international classification.