What do plants do in winter?
What do plants do in winter?

Summary/Abstract: Due to degree of tolerance of low temperatures, plants can be divided into susceptible to cold or frost and resistant to temperature that drops below zero. In the temperate climate, most of plants are tolerant to low temperatures and have evolved several mechanisms which enable them to survive the winter and limit the negative effects of low temperatures. Extremely important in preparing the plant for the coming winter are gradual temperature drops and the gradual shortening day of the autumn. Reduction of cell membrane fluidity and a decrease in efficiency of photosynthesis are the main mechanisms involved in the perception of weather conditions. This leads to the induction of processes acquiring tolerance to unfavorable conditions by modulating genes expression, the accumulation of specific proteins with cryoprotective properties, the synthesis of osmotically active and antioxidant compounds. Some species overwinter as dormant, others, that are called evergreen, retain metabolic activity adjusting to winter conditions.

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