Which of the following terms describes the practice of planting directly into the ground without prior bulb preparation?

The practice of planting directly into the ground without prior bulb preparation is known as direct seeding. This method involves sowing seeds directly into the soil at the location where the plants are intended to grow, rather than starting the seeds in a nursery or greenhouse and then moving them to their final location.

Direct seeding allows for a more natural environment for germination and growth, as the seeds can establish their roots in the soil they will grow in over time. This practice can be advantageous because it often requires fewer resources (like pots or soil mixes) and can reduce the stress that seedlings might experience when being transplanted.

In contrast, transplanting involves growing seeds into seedlings first, then moving them to a different location where they can continue to grow. Topdressing refers to applying a layer of organic or inorganic material on top of the soil for various benefits, including improving soil fertility, while sowing is a more general term that may include various methods of planting seeds, not necessarily limited to direct methods. Direct seeding is a specific technique within the broader concept of sowing, emphasizing its unique characteristics and benefits.