kaheaastaste

Kaheaastaste is an Estonian term referring to plants that complete their life cycle in two years. These plants typically germinate in the first year, grow leaves and roots, and overwinter. In the second year, they produce flowers, set seed, and then die. This life cycle distinguishes them from annuals, which complete their life cycle in one year, and perennials, which live for more than two years.

Common examples of kaheaastaste include parsley, which is often grown as an annual but is botanically a biennial, and carrots. Foxgloves and sweet William are also well-known biennials in ornamental gardening. The success of a biennial plant often depends on the conditions of its first year of growth, as this determines its ability to survive the winter and produce a robust bloom in its second year. Gardeners often plant biennials in succession to ensure a continuous display of flowers or a steady supply of vegetables. Understanding the biennial life cycle is key to their successful cultivation, as it involves specific planting and care strategies.