Plant Structure and Crop Physiology

Seed Production and Processing

“…The optimum temperatures for vernalization and induction of the reproductive phase are in the range of 4-10°C, for the duration of 15-20 weeks (Wood et al 1980;Longden 1986;Milford 2006). High temperatures above 15°C immediately after vernalization may devernalize plants, meaning that they would not be able to flower or produce any seeds.…”

Sugar Crops

“…During the first 30 days, growth is confined primarily to its leaves and fibrous roots. After approximately 30 days both top and storage root growth proceeds rapidly, with tops reaching near maximum fresh weight in 60-90 days and canopy closure occurring at a leaf area index (LAI) of 3 (Milford, 2006). Subsequently, with favorable climate, top growth remains fairly constant but storage roots continue to grow rapidly for another 20-40 weeks (for a 10-month crop).…”

“…Bell et al (1996) and Milford (2006), summarizing a large number of studies, reported that DM partitioning in roots is regulated by the cells within the root and is independent of the photosynthate supply ( Figure 3, Bell et al, 1996;Milford, 2006). On a fresh weight basis, the sucrose content of the root remains relatively constant, unless suitable external factors cause the concentration to change.…”

“…N fertilizer use has tended to decline with increasing yields. Milford (2006) and Milford et al (1988) suggested that environmental or agronomic factors that affect the size and rate of development of the shoot influence sucrose accumulation in the root. When N becomes deficient before harvest, leaf initiation and expansion is slowed relative to photosynthesis, and photosynthetically produced sucrose accumulates in roots as storage rather than as new vegetative growth.…”

Sweet and Sour: A Scientific and Legal Look at Herbicide-Tolerant Sugar Beet

“…In its first year, a sugar beet produces a rosette of leaves and a large storage root containing sucrose. During its second year, the sugar beet will flower if exposed to vernalizing temperatures and lengthening photoperiod (Milford, 2006). Excluding California, the U.S. crop is planted in the spring and the roots are harvested in late fall.…”