What is the growing season defined as?

The growing season is defined as the period from spring frost to fall frost. This timeframe is critical for many plants because it marks the duration when the risk of frost has passed in spring and when it typically returns in the fall. During the growing season, temperatures are suitable for plant growth, allowing them to sprout, bloom, and set seeds. This is particularly important not only for gardeners and farmers but also for understanding local climate patterns as they relate to the cultivation of various plant species.

The other options do not encapsulate the full scope of what constitutes the growing season. Planting seeds can happen at various times depending on the species and specific agricultural practices, while the dormant period for plants signifies times when growth halts due to unfavorable conditions, such as winter. Lastly, pest control applications may occur at specific times throughout the year that might not align with the broader growing season context. Thus, the first choice best reflects the widely accepted definition of the growing season.