Water Relations and Net Photosynthesis in Hybrid Geranium1

Abstract

Abstract The relationships of net photosynthesis (Pn) to soil water potential, leaf diffusive resistance, leaf water potential, and relative water content were studied with hybrid geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum Bailey cv Sprinter Scarlet) grown under conditions of greenhouse pot culture. Net photosynthesis went through 4 stages according to the effects of water stress on the plants. As water stress increased, Pn went from a steady-state maxiumum rate to slow decline, to rapid decline, to total inhibition. During rapid Pn decline, soil water potential rapidly decreased from −4 bars to −14 bars, and leaf diffusive resistance increased from 4 s cm−1 to 80s cm−1. Leaf water potential was −7 bars, and relative leaf water content was 81–87%. Leaf water potential appeared to be the best indicator of imminent Pn decline. After rewatering water-stressed plants, 3 days were required to elevate Pn to a steady-state maximum which was only 90% of initial steady-state Pn.