The Effect of Temperature on the Growth of Individual Leaves of Vicia faba L. in the Field

Abstract

The generalized logistic curve was used to describe the growth of individual leaves in crops of Vicia faba L. Durations of expansion and mean absolute growth rates were derived from these curves. The duration of expansion was inversely related to temperature averaged over four days from unfolding. This relationship was independent of leaf position except for the lowest leaves. The duration of expansion of a leaf was related to the rate of production of new leaves, the number of expanding leaves remaining relatively constant. Absolute growth rates varied with leaf position up to leaf 10. At higher leaves, in the absence of water stress, absolute growth rate was a function of temperature and radiation.