Why do climate and terrain affect horticultural crops?

Climate and terrain are fundamental to horticulture because they dictate the environmental conditions necessary for plant growth, development, and yield. Every plant species has specific cardinal temperatures—minimum, optimum, and maximum—that determine its survival and growth rate. When these thresholds are not met, or when environmental factors like light, moisture, and soil temperature are unfavorable, plant development can be severely retarded or ruined.12

Terrain and location influence these factors through several mechanisms:

• Altitude and Latitude: These determine temperature ranges and the length of the growing season. For example, high-altitude slopes can allow temperate crops to thrive even in tropical regions by providing cooler conditions.345
• Microclimates: Localized terrain features, such as hills, proximity to water, or the presence of structures, create unique microclimates that may support crops that would otherwise fail in the broader region.64
• Photoperiodism: The duration of daylight, which varies by latitude and season, acts as a critical signal for many plants to flower or produce bulbs.352
• Soil Conditions: Terrain affects drainage and soil temperature, which are vital for root function, germination, and the prevention of plant diseases.15