masting
/ˈmæstɪŋ/
noun
- The synchronized, periodic production of large amounts of seeds or fruit by a population of trees or plants, often occurring in cycles of several years.
- Oak trees in this forest undergo masting every three to five years, producing an enormous crop of acorns.
- Scientists study masting to understand how it affects animal populations that rely on tree seeds for food.
- The sudden masting of beech trees led to a boom in the local squirrel population.