Maximum Growth Potential and Periods of Resource Limitation in Apple Tree.

ABSTRACT: Knowledge of seasonal maximum potential growth rates are important for assessing periods of resource limitations in fruit tree species. In this study we assessed the periods of resource limitation for vegetative (current year stems, and woody biomass) and reproductive (fruit) organs of a major agricultural crop: the apple tree. This was done by comparing relative growth rates (RGRs) of individual organs in trees with reduced competition for resources to trees grown under standard field conditions. Special attention was dedicated to disentangling patterns and values of maximum potential growth for each organ type. The period of resource limitation for vegetative growth was much longer than in another fruit tree species (peach): from late May until harvest. Two periods of resource limitation

SUBMITTER: Reyes F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4770189 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature