biostudies-literatureCoen ECanadian Network for Research and Innovation in Machining Technology, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of CanadaRCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research CouncilBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council2674https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC10965974biostudies-literatureUnknown15(1)Plants exhibit reproducible timing of developmental events at multiple scales, from switches in cell identity to maturation of the whole plant. Control of developmental timing likely evolved for similar reasons that humans invented clocks: to coordinate events. However, whereas clocks are designed to run independently of conditions, plant developmental timing is strongly dependent on growth and environment. Using simplified models to convey key concepts, we review how growth-dependent and inherent timing mechanisms interact with the environment to control cyclical and progressive developmental transitions in plants.Nature communicationsDevelopmental timing in plants.PMC10965974BB/M023117/1BB/M023117/1, BB/W007924/1, BBS/E/J/000PR9787, BBS/E/J/00000152, BB/L008920/1, BBS/E/J/000PR9789BB/W007924/1Prusinkiewicz PCoen EfalseDevelopmental timing in plants.Plants exhibit reproducible timing of developmental events at multiple scales, from switches in cell identity to maturation of the whole plant. Control of developmental timing likely evolved for similar reasons that humans invented clocks: to coordinate events. However, whereas clocks are designed to run independently of conditions, plant developmental timing is strongly dependent on growth and environment. Using simplified models to convey key concepts, we review how growth-dependent and inherent timing mechanisms interact with the environment to control cyclical and progressive developmental transitions in plants.2024-01-01T00:00:00Z2024 Mar2025-04-04T23:52:38.936Z2025-04-04T23:52:38.936ZS-EPMC109659743853186410.1038/s41467-024-46941-1