What does the term hardening-off refer to in the nursery/landscape industry?

The term hardening-off in the nursery and landscape industry refers specifically to the process of acclimatizing tender plants to harsher, outdoor conditions. This process is essential for ensuring that young plants, which may have been grown in a controlled environment such as a greenhouse, gradually adjust to the real-world factors they will encounter once transplanted outdoors.

Hardening-off typically involves gradually exposing these plants to outdoor conditions, including varying temperatures, sunlight, and wind. This helps enhance their resilience and minimizes shock when they are finally planted in their permanent locations. By undergoing hardening-off, plants build up necessary strength and tolerance to environmental stressors, making them more likely to thrive once exposed to the rigors of outdoor life.

Other options do not capture the true essence of hardening-off. While some may involve plant adjustments or protective measures, they do not accurately describe the acclimatization process that is central to the hardening-off term.