INDICATORS OF WATER STRESS IN CORN (Zea mays L.)

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Abstract
Greenhouse experiments were conducted to monitor the response of corn (Zea mays L.) to water stress conditions during and following tasselling, and to compare several indicators of water stress. Daily measurements of soil water content and of evaporative demand were made. The degree of plant water stress was indicated by estimates of minimum daily stomatal resistance, comparison of estimated actual and potential transpiration rates, diurnal patterns of leaf water potential and predawn leaf water potentials taken on lower leaves. Analysis of the series of measurements necessary to estimate minimum daily stomatal resistance, actual to potential transpiration rate ratios, and diurnal patterns of leaf water potential identified periods of relative water stress. The simpler and less time-consuming measurement of predawn leaf water potential compared favorably with these other indicators of water stress. We therefore suggest that predawn leaf water potential is an appropriate diagnostic measurement of water stress with promise for irrigation scheduling, particularly for crops in which irrigation is important for a short but critical period.Key words: Leaf water potential, stomatal resistance, transpiration, vapor pressure deficit, soil water deficit