Responses of Growth and Photosynthesis in Potted Radermachera hainanensis and R. sinica to Various Medium Water Contents
Journal
Journal of Environmental Horticulture
Journal Volume
42
Journal Issue
3
Start Page
124-130
ISSN
2573-5586
0738-2898
Date Issued
2024-09-01
Author(s)
Abstract
Radermachera hainanensis Merr. and R. sinica Hemsl. are woody ornamental plants commonly used for indoor or landscape purposes. However, there is currently a lack of information regarding their water management. Potted plants of these two species were subjected to four volumetric water content (VWC) treatments: 20% VWC (dry), 20%/60% VWC (dry/wet cycle), 40% VWC (moisture), and 70% VWC (waterlogging). Results revealed that both Radermachera species exhibited the poorest growth under the 20% VWC treatment, with the lowest stem diameter, leaf area, plant dry weight, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance, and maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm). The maximum stem diameter, leaf area, and root dry weight were recorded with the 40% VWC treatment. Stem diameter, leaf area, Pn, and Fv/Fm were higher in both Radermachera species with the 20%/60% VWC compared to the 20% VWC treatment. R. sinica exposed to 20%/60% VWC exhibited similar root dry weight and leaf drop as those with the 40% VWC treatment, while R. hainanensis showed lower root dry weight and higher leaf drop compared to the 40% VWC. Root dry weight, Pn, and Fv/Fm remained unchanged in R. sinica but reduced in R. hainanensis with the 70% VWC compared to the 40% VWC.
SDGs
Publisher
Horticultural Research Institute
Type
journal article