What does "shedding" mean concerning flower care?

The term "shedding" in the context of flower care specifically refers to the process when leaves or petals fall off a plant due to stress, age, or other environmental factors. This natural occurrence can be a response to several conditions, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or watering practices.

When plants experience stress, whether from inadequate care, pests, or disease, they may shed leaves or petals in an attempt to conserve energy and resources. This is often a sign that the plant is not in optimal health. In the lifecycle of flowers, shedding can also happen as they age, reflecting the natural growth cycle of the plant.

The other options relate to different aspects of plant care. Pruning is focused on cutting back parts of the plant to encourage healthier growth, watering involves providing the right amount of moisture to the plant, and fertilizing enriches the soil to promote bloom. However, these activities do not directly describe the phenomenon of shedding.