The Physiology of Sugar-Cane VI. Effects of Temperature, Light, and Water on Set Germination and Early Growth of Saccharum Spp.

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Abstract
Freshly cut sets from irrigated cane gave 100% germination without an external water supply. Pre-soaking did not accelerate germination or subsequent growth. Optimum temperature for germination in darkness or in daylight for ev. Pindar was in the vicinity of 30[degree]C, with severe growth depression below 22[degree]C and virtually no growth in the range 10-16[degree]C. Bimodal temperature-growth curves were found for set root production. Diurnal temperature changes of 4 and 6 degC at 12-hourly intervals did not increase growth above that expected for the mean temperature. At temperatures between 30 and 34[degree]C but not at 18[degree]C, constant light was deleterious for dry matter production. Short days (8 hr) increased the shoot to root ratio and the leafiness (leaf area per unit dry weight of plant). Saccharum spontaneum, S. robustum, and S. officinarum varieties differed in their response to temperature for germination. Genetic variability and tolerance to low temperature were greatest in S. spontaneum.

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