How do bennenials differ from perennials?
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/wildseed/growing/annual.html
Thank you Ms. Sue! (:
You're welcome, Losa.
To understand the differences between biennials and perennials, let's start with their definitions:
1. Biennials: Biennials are plants that complete their life cycle within two years. In the first year, they grow vegetatively (leaves, stems, and roots) and store nutrients, usually in the form of carbohydrates, in their roots, bulbs, or tubers. In the second year, they flower, produce seeds, and die.
2. Perennials: Perennials, on the other hand, are plants that live for more than two years. Unlike biennials, they do not have a set lifespan and can continue to grow, flower, and reproduce for many years, sometimes even decades.
Now, here's how you can differentiate between biennials and perennials:
1. Life Cycle: The primary distinction between biennials and perennials is their life cycle. Biennials complete their life cycle in two years, while perennials continue to grow and live for multiple years.
2. Reproduction: Biennials reproduce by producing seeds in their second year. Once they have flowered and produced seeds, their life cycle typically ends. Perennials, on the other hand, can reproduce by seeds, bulbs, rhizomes, or other methods throughout their lifetime.
3. Growth Pattern: Biennials typically grow vegetatively during their first year, establishing a strong root system and storing nutrients. In the second year, they divert energy to flowering and seeding. Perennials, on the other hand, can continuously grow each year, developing new leaves, stems, and roots while also producing flowers and seeds.
4. Longevity: Biennials have a relatively short lifespan, usually lasting only two years. Once they complete their life cycle and produce seeds, they die. Perennials, on the other hand, have the capacity to live for many years, and some species can survive for decades under favorable conditions.
It's important to note that not all plants fall strictly into the categories of biennials or perennials. Some species may act as biennials in certain climates or conditions and as perennials in others. Additionally, there are also annuals (plants that complete their life cycle within one year) and perennial herbs (herbaceous plants that live for multiple years).