Comparative responses of Lolium perenne and Phalaris aquatica to multiple growth stresses

Abstract

The growth and carbon distribution patterns of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. cv. Yatsyn1) and phalaris (Phalaris aquatica L. cv. Holdfast) were analysed in response to defoliation and limited nitrogen availability stresses, imposed both individually and in combination. Both species showed similar responses to defoliation and nitrogen limitation when applied individually. Defoliation increased proportional export of carbon from residual leaves and carbon distribution to tillers was increased at the expense of roots. Nitrogen deficiency resulted in increased export of carbon to the root system. These results are consistent with source-sink theory. A key finding from this study was that..