FOLIAR AREA AND EFFICIENCY IN THE USE OF THE RADIATION OF THE JAPANESE PLUM (Prunus salicina) DURING A PHENOLOGICAL CYCLE

Abstract

Aim: To analyze the evolution of Leaf Area (AF) and Radiation Use Efficiency (EUR) during a phenological cycle of the Japanese plum (Prunus salicina) cv. Methley.
Design/methodology/approach: Twenty healthy and adequately managed trees were selected through quota sampling. The dates of beginning and end of the phenological phases were determined. Statistical correlations among LA, Intercepted Photosynthetically Active Radiation (RFAi) and phenological phases were determined, which implied a logical relationship between variables and a bivariate distribution. The degree and type of association among variables were analyzed through Spearman correlation coefficients using the SAS statistical package, while the EUR was estimated through linear regression.
Results: LA increased during fruit growth and development; the radical accumulation increased simultaneously. The highest LA occurred during the second stage of fruit growth and physiological maturity. There was a significant positive correlation of AF with RPAi and vegetative and fruit growth. There was EUR during the growth of diverse organs, even during foliar abscission.
Study limitations/implications: It would be advisable to carry out this study in several phenological cycles and with several genotypes of this species.
Findings/conclusions: The highest LA occurred during the second phase of fruit growth. LA and RUE varied among phenological phases of Japanese plum cv. Methley, being affected especially by fruit growth and development.