This regional term refers to the fleshy crown or basal stem area where a plant transitions into its root mass. It is the active growing center for many perennial crops and grasses, holding the dormant buds needed for regeneration after cutting or grazing. Protecting this zone from deep frost or aggressive tillage ensures the plant survives the winter to sprout again.
Heard on the job
Make sure you set the mower deck high enough so we don't scalp the wick on that new pasture grass.
Insider tip
Damaging this lower stem area during mechanical weeding often kills the plant entirely, as it destroys the primary regeneration point.