Description

Leaf area index (LAI) quantifies canopy expansion in crops and is used in lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) simulation models to predict daily PAR interception (PAR i). This then drives yield through radiation use efficiency (RUE) (Gosse et al., 1984). In perennial crops, like lucerne, the level of biomass stored in crown and taproot may affect canopy expansion in subsequent regrowth cycles (Avice et al., 1997). In temperate regions the impact of this is likely to be greatest in early-spring, when low temperatures delay development. The objective of the current research was to identify whether contrasting levels of winter biomass in crown and taproots affected LAI expansion in early-spring regrowth crops.

Share

COinS
 

Lucerne Crown and Taproot Biomass Affected Early-Spring Canopy Expansion

Leaf area index (LAI) quantifies canopy expansion in crops and is used in lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) simulation models to predict daily PAR interception (PAR i). This then drives yield through radiation use efficiency (RUE) (Gosse et al., 1984). In perennial crops, like lucerne, the level of biomass stored in crown and taproot may affect canopy expansion in subsequent regrowth cycles (Avice et al., 1997). In temperate regions the impact of this is likely to be greatest in early-spring, when low temperatures delay development. The objective of the current research was to identify whether contrasting levels of winter biomass in crown and taproots affected LAI expansion in early-spring regrowth crops.