Seasonal Patterns of Carbohydrates and Proline in Jojoba Clones that Differ in Frost Susceptibility

Abstract

Total nonstructural carbohydrates (TNC), starch, total soluble sugars, sucrose, and proline concentrations were monitored for 18 months in leaf tissue of two jojoba [Simmondsia chinensis (Link) Schneider] clones that differ in frost susceptibility. Seasonal changes in TNC and starch concentrations, with maxima in the winter and minima in summer, were significant. Sugar levels decreased from fall to spring and increased during early summer. The more frost-resistant clone (C-1) had significantly higher sugar concentrations during most of the study than the less frost-resistant clone (C-2). Proline concentrations largely followed the trends found for TNC. The C-1 clone had the higher levels of proline, except when C-2 was frost-injured. Growth trends were similiar between C-1 and C-2, with a major growth flush from March to May. Relatively high levels of starch preceded growth flushes.