Photosynthetic Activity of Four Florist Azalea Cultivars

Abstract

<jats:p>The photosynthetic activity of four <jats:italic>Rhododendron simsii</jats:italic> cultivars `Dorothy Gish', `Paloma', `White Gish', and `Gloria' were studied at both the individual leaf level using a portable photosynthesis system (closed), or at the whole-plant level using assimilation chambers (semi-open system). Net photosynthetic assimilation curves in response to light in both systems will be established. The experimental points obtained will be adjusted to a photosynthetic model as described in the literature. The model parameters [original efficiency (α) dark respiration (Rd), maximum photosynthetic capacity to saturated light (Pmax)] will be presented. The evolution of these parameters will be presented as a function of the various stages of development. Also a comparison of the four cultivars will be shown.</jats:p>