Temperature-Induced Chemical Defects in Higher Plants

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Abstract
Using 6 plant species it was shown that the reduction in dry matter production caused by unfavorable temperature can be prevented by providing specific metabolites from an external source. In most cases the prevention is not complete. The nature of the effective metabolite depends on the plant species and on the temperature. The adverse effects of temperatures above as well as below the optimum can be prevented by applying metabolically active substances. It can be concluded that at least part of the growth response to temperature is caused by a temperature-induced shortage in 1, or a few, essential metabolites such as ribosides, vitamin C, and substances belonging to the vitamin B group. The substances can be applied to the leaves of plants growing in unfavorable temperature conditions by regular spray treatment. Sometimes soaking the seeds with metabolites before planting may be effective.

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