Modifications to the graowth and development of cereals using chlorocholine chloride in the absence of lodging: A synopsis

Abstract

Abstract In the absence of lodging, the growth regulator chlormequat (chlorocholine chloride; CCC) has been shown to exert influences on almost every aspect of cereal growth and development. Promotion or inhibition of photosynthesis and respiration are mediated by changes in enzyme activity and gas exchange, while the quantity of light absorbed is influenced by changes in canopy size, canopy posture and delayed maturation. In spite of these changes biomass production is rarely affected by the end of the season. CCC often increases ear population at harvest by either promoting tiller production or survival. Number of grains per ear may be promoted, whether from an abundance of spikelets or of florets. Often, however, reduced invidual grain weight compensates and grain yield remains unchanged. Effects of CCC reported on cereal crops are often inconsistent and may even be converse. Future studies should elucidate reasons for the variability in response by taking a broad, rather than an insular or introspective viewpoint.