By definition, a dormant vegetative bud is viable but it fails to grow when subjected to environmental conditions normally favorable for growth. An understanding of the biochemistry of dormant and active buds is needed to serve as a basis for solving the problem of artificially breaking or inducing bud dormancy. The present study was conducted with the aim of adding to existing knowledge concerning the biochemistry of dormant and active buds of tanweed (Polygonum coccineum Muhl.). The study consists of determinations of dormancy in tanweed buds; assays of bud preparations for total nitrogen and protein nitrogen; and measurement of the activities of peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase, and IAA-oxidase.