ISHS Acta Horticulturae 516: XXV International Horticultural Congress, Part 6: Culture Techniques with Special Emphasis on Environmental Implications Physiological Processes in Plants
CONTAINER VOLUME EFFECTS ON MORPHOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF TOMATO SEEDLINGS |
| Authors: | S. Mugnai, P. Vernieri, F. Tognoni, G. Serra |
| Keywords: | Lycopersicon esculentum, abscisic acid, container, growth analysis, leaf gas exchange, root restriction |
| Abstract:
The effects of root restriction on morphology and physiology of tomato were investigated in seedlings grown in cells of different volume (230 ml, 35 ml, 7 ml) filled with vermiculite and irrigated with complete nutrient solution to prevent any shortage in water and nutrient supply. Root restriction reduced plant growth, in terms of dry weight and leaf area, and increased root/shoot ratio. Growth inhibition was due to a reduction in leaf area ratio and net assimilation rate. In our conditions, root restriction did not affect leaf water potential, leaf gas exchange and endogenous ABA content in both root and leaf tissues. | |
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