The relationship between frost tolerance and generative induction in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under field conditions

Abstract

The quantitative nature of the vernalization and photoperiod requirements and the interference of plant age with these mechanisms complicate predictions of generative induction and its relation to frost tolerance. This study was designed to dissect further the course of development towards full generative induction and to time the stages in frost tolerance. Two cultivars of winter wheat were regularly sampled from fields at four sites during three winters. The apex stage of development was observed at time of sampling and after 3 subsequent weeks of growth at 18°C, under either short or long days. Level of frost tolerance at sampling was also recorded. No visible change in apex appearance was found at time of sampling, but readiness of plants to initiate generative development was enhanced. Vernalization by low temperatures alone was not enough to induce the plants into generative development or initiate loss of frost tolerance. Short day conditions after sampling delayed the appearance of double ridges by 6-9 wk as compared with long day conditions. The timing of maximum frost tolerance and its subsequent decrease indicated that generative induction under the short day conditions prevailing in field occurred about 1 mo after vernalization saturation.