| dc.description.abstract |
The effect of transient water deficits on seed yield and components of seed yield of narrow-leafed lupin was measured in plants grown in a controlled environment under simulated field conditions. Lupins were grown in large columns of soil and transient water deficits were induced at pod set on the mainstem and first-order apical branches by withholding water for a 5-day period. Soil water content, leaf water potential, turgor pressure, and leaf conductance declined similarly during each period of transient water deficit. Differences in these parameters were apparent 2 days after water was withheld, and over the 5-day period, leaf water potential declined to -1.3 MPa and leaf conductance fell to 44% of the well-watered controls. Total dry matter per plant was reduced by the transient water deficit treatments. The reduction resulted from less accumulation of dry matter on the first, second, and third order apical branches. Leaf area on these branches was also reduced by abscission of the leaves after the water deficit was released. Seed yield per plant after each period of transient water deficit was reduced by 30 |
|