Dry matter content in sunflower plant organs depending on the seed size

Abstract

The mass of the plants depends on assimilates, which are formed in the process of photosynthesis and their amount varies depending of different factors. In this study the influence of seed size on the sunflower plant dry matter content at the bud stage was examined. Natural seeds of sunflower hybrid Oliva were separated into six grades. First, seeds were separated in two grades according to the dimensions, and then seed separation according to the specific weight within these grades was carried out. The field experiment during two growing seasons was carried out at two localities. The accumulation of dry matter was observed in bud stage. The individual plant organs were analyzed – stems, leaves, petioles and buds. Data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA for a split-slit-plot model design. The dry matter content in the plant organs was significantly influenced by weather conditions in experimental years, localities, as well as the seed grades.