| This thesis research was an investigation of the feasibility of using foliar applications of sucrose and sucrose root pulsing on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv. Micro-Tom) as a model system for studying the effects of diel availability of carbon on plant physiology and development, and tested the hypothesis that the diel availability of exogenously applied sucrose can influence plant growth and development. The sucrose was either sprayed topically onto leaves every day at noon or pulsed to the roots for one hour at various times of the day. Topical foliar and root pulsing applications of sucrose caused alterations in photosynthesis, lateral branch development, and plant reproductive development. There was evidence that stomatal function was affected by foliar applications of sucrose. The diel timing of root-applied sucrose did affect development, and the effects correlated with the timing of sucrose applications relative to diel growth rhythm patterns. |
