Leaf Growth in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) 1. Growth in Area of Main-stem and Sympodial Leaves

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Abstract
A model is presented for growth of individual and successive main-stem leaves of cotton, based on a series of indoor experiments and data sets from the literature. Three variable parameters are used to describe individual leaf growth: relative growth rate of meristematic tissue (R1), relative rate of approach of final area (R2) and a ‘position parameter’ (t0.5) which governs the transition from meristematic to extension growth. Final area of a leaf does not occur in the model as a deterministic quantity but it is a result of the processes during growth. The model generates successive mainstem leaves and sympodial leaves as an integrated system. Assimilate shortages occurring in the plant operate on R1 leading to the characteristic change of final leaf area along the mainstem.