Bending alters water balance and reduces photosynthesis of rose shoots

Abstract

Shoot-bending has become a standard cultural practice in cut-flower rose (Rosa hybrida L.) production. Physiological effects of shoot-bending on leaf net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (&), transpiration rate (E), and stem water potential (ψ) were investigated for rose plants. With saturating light conditions, shoot-bending decreased rates of A, gs, and E in comparison with the rates prior to shoot-bending. A, gs, and E of bent shoots were significantly lower than those of the control shoots that were not bent. The differences in A between bent and control shoots decreased over time, disappearing within 3 weeks after bending. Bent shoots exhibited reduced ψ. Leaves projecting upward on a bent stem were found to have higher A, gs, and E than those projecting downward. This was probably due to the destruction of xylem vessels serving the leaves attached to the lower side (compression side) of the bent stem. Our results support the hypothesis that hydraulic conductivity is reduced in bent shoots probably due to disturbed xylem tissues, and that reduced photosynthetic rates of bent shoots are a function of water status.