How can climate change impact horticulture?

Climate change has significant implications for horticulture, particularly in how it alters growing conditions and seasonal cycles. Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and the frequency of extreme weather events all affect plant growth, development, and productivity. For instance, warmer temperatures can lead to earlier blooming times, which can disrupt traditional growing seasons and subsequently affect crop yields. Additionally, altered rainfall patterns can impact water availability, presenting both challenges and opportunities for different regions. These shifts may require adjustments in crop selection, planting schedules, and management practices, making it essential for horticulturists to adapt to the new climatic realities to ensure sustainable production.

The other options do not accurately represent the impacts of climate change on horticulture. For instance, climate change is unlikely to increase freshwater availability and may actually lead to water scarcity in many regions. Stable pest populations are typically disrupted by climate change, which can lead to increased pest outbreaks as new species spread into areas where they were previously non-existent. The need for fertilizers may vary; while some conditions might reduce immediate nutrient requirements, others may increase the necessity for fertilizers due to altered soil health and nutrient cycling processes.