Which climate factor can severely affect plant health in a nursery?

Temperature extremes can have a significant impact on plant health in a nursery setting. Plants have specific temperature ranges within which they thrive; extreme heat or cold can lead to stress, hinder growth, and even result in damage or death. For example, high temperatures can cause scorching, wilting, and increased water loss through transpiration, while extremely low temperatures can lead to frost damage or inhibit growth altogether. Nurseries must carefully monitor and manage temperature to create an optimal environment for plant development.

While high humidity, excessive sunlight, and heavy rainfall can also affect plant health, temperature extremes are particularly critical because they can lead to immediate and severe physiological stress. Plants may not be able to acclimate quickly to sudden shifts in temperature, making this factor a key consideration in nursery management.