Gas exchange and water relations of young potted loquat cv. Algerie under progressive drought conditions.

Abstract

Relationships between plant water status and gas exchange parameters at increasing levels of water stress were determined in Algerie loquats grown in 501 pots. Changes in soil water content and stem water potential and their effects on stomatal conductance (gs) and net photosynthesis (Pn) rate were followed in control plants and in plants without irrigation until the latter reached near permanent wilting point and some leaf abscission took place. Then, the irrigation was restarted and the comparison repeated. Soil water content and stem water potential gradually diminished in response to drought reaching minimum values of 0.9 mm and ¿5.0 MPa, respectively, 9 days after watering suspension.