Publication Date

1997

Description

The response of absolute and relative growth of 'Grasslands Puna' chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) to defoliation intensity was examined in a glasshouse. Five defoliation intensities (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm above media level), at 3 week intervals with 4 replications were arranged in a completely randomised design. The aboveground relative growth rate of Puna chicory increased exponentially as defoliation intensity increased, resulting in defoliation intensity not decreasing average absolute growth rate until weeks 9-12. However, there were significant differences in belowground mass between defoliation intensities from week 6 onwards. Defoliation above 150 mm, with 3 week intervals, is suggested to maintain aboveground absolute growth rate and belowground mass.

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Effect of Defoliation Intensity on the Absolute and Relative Growth Rates of 'Grasslands Puna' Chicory

The response of absolute and relative growth of 'Grasslands Puna' chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) to defoliation intensity was examined in a glasshouse. Five defoliation intensities (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm above media level), at 3 week intervals with 4 replications were arranged in a completely randomised design. The aboveground relative growth rate of Puna chicory increased exponentially as defoliation intensity increased, resulting in defoliation intensity not decreasing average absolute growth rate until weeks 9-12. However, there were significant differences in belowground mass between defoliation intensities from week 6 onwards. Defoliation above 150 mm, with 3 week intervals, is suggested to maintain aboveground absolute growth rate and belowground mass.