The growth phase of plants refers to the period in which they actively grow and form new leaves, shoots, or roots. This phase is part of the natural development cycle and follows the vegetation periods, which are based on the seasonal rhythm. Plants often also have growth phases during this growth phase. an increased need for water and nutrients.
When is the growth phase for plants?
For most plant species, the growth phase into the spring and summer months. As the days lengthen, more light becomes available, and temperatures rise, the plants' metabolism is activated. The increased light allows photosynthesis to proceed more intensively, making more energy available for growth. At the same time, the roots absorb more water and nutrients from the substrate. These are needed for the formation of new cells, enabling the growth of leaves, shoots, and roots.
However, depending on the type of plant, location and care, the growth phase of plants can vary in length. It typically lasts for several months, provided there is sufficient light, suitable temperatures, and adequate nutrient supply. As day length decreases and temperatures drop, growth gradually slows down and enters a dormant phase.
Growth phases of plants throughout the year
Besides the main growth phase, plants go through further developmental phases that correspond to the natural cycle of the seasons. Light intensity, temperature, and day length significantly influence the activity of the plant's metabolism. Depending on these factors, phases of intensive growth alternate with periods of reduced activity.
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Spring – beginning of the growth phase: As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, the metabolism is activated and the plants begin to form new leaves, shoots and roots.
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Summer – Main growth and flowering phase: During the light and warm months, plants grow particularly strongly, many species flower or produce fruit and have the highest need for water and nutrients.
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Autumn – transition phase: As light decreases, growth gradually slows down, the plant prepares for the dormant phase and reduces its energy consumption.
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Winter – dormancy phase: During the dormancy phase, growth is severely restricted or comes to a complete standstill, and the need for water and nutrients is significantly lower.
How can you tell what stage the plant is in?
Generally, the respective phase of a plant can be guided by the course of the year. However, the plant itself also exhibits clear characteristics that indicate how active its metabolism is.
Characteristics of the growth phase:
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Formation of new leaves, shoots or roots
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Visible, regular growth
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Increased need for water and nutrients
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Bud formation or beginning of flowering in flowering plants
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More vibrant leaf color and taut leaf tissue
Characteristics of the resting phase:
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Little or no new growth
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Slow metabolism
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Lower water and nutrient requirements
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Shedding of older leaves
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Less tension in leaves and shoots
Correctly identifying the plant's current growth phase is particularly important, as its care requirements differ significantly depending on the phase. Watering, fertilizing, and repotting should always be adapted to the respective phase to optimally support the plant and avoid care mistakes. Proper preparation for overwintering also plays a crucial role in ensuring plants remain healthy throughout the dormant period.
Phase-dependent plant care
Pour
During the growth phase, plants generally need more water because they are actively growing and absorb and evaporate more moisture through their leaves and roots. During the dormant phase, their metabolism slows down, so they should be watered significantly less to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilize
Plants should primarily be fertilized during their growth phase, as they require nutrients for the formation of new leaves, shoots, and flowers during this time. In autumn, fertilizer application should be gradually reduced, and during the dormant phase, fertilizer should be largely omitted, as the plant cannot utilize the nutrients. From spring onwards, with the start of the growth phase, fertilization can be slowly resumed.
Repotting
As a rule, it is recommended to repot plants only during the growth phase. because they can then adapt more quickly to the fresh substrate and form new roots. Repotting during the dormant phase causes additional stress and should be avoided if possible.
Location
Especially during their dormant phase, plants can be sensitive to changes in location and should be left undisturbed as much as possible. However, a change of location can be beneficial if the light conditions deteriorate significantly over the course of the year and the plant no longer receives sufficient light. If a change of location becomes necessary to provide the plant with more light, care should be taken to ensure that the temperature and drafts remain as similar as possible at the new location. This way, the plant receives more light without being further weakened by strong temperature fluctuations or cold air.
Pruning & Cuttings
Pruning encourages new growth, but should only be done carefully or not at all during the dormant period. For some plant species, light pruning before winter can be beneficial to maintain the plant's shape or remove damaged shoots. However, more extensive pruning and the taking of cuttings should be postponed until spring, as the plants are then particularly regenerative and cuttings root more easily.
