The temperature sum (heat sum) is a statistical indicator used in meteorology. It can be used to compare different regions or years on the basis of temperatures. The growth and development of plants, insects and other invertebrates largely depends on the ambient temperature. Many organisms slow down or block their growth and development when temperatures rise or fall above or below certain threshold values. All plants require an individual temperature sum to be ready for flowering. The accumulation of thermal energy over a period of time is called growing degree days or temperature totals. All daily averages are added together to give the temperature sum.
![]()
The wein.plus encyclopaedia is a comprehensive, well-researched reference work. Available anytime and anywhere, it has become an indispensable part of teaching, used by students and myself alike. Highly recommended!
Dominik Trick
Technischer Lehrer, staatl. geprüfter Sommelier, Hotelfachschule Heidelberg