What is characteristic of winter annuals?

Winter annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in a single growing season, typically beginning in the fall, when temperatures are cooler. They germinate, grow, and mature during the cooler months, often surviving through winter. These plants then flower, set seed, and die before the summer heat arrives. This adaptation allows them to take advantage of the cooler, wetter conditions of fall and spring, which supports their growth and reproduction.

The ability of winter annuals to finish their life cycle before the hottest part of the year is crucial, as high temperatures can inhibit their growth and success. Understanding this characteristic helps in managing these plants in agricultural settings, particularly in knowing when to apply herbicides effectively to control their population and prevent competition with desired crops.