Institute of Horticultural Production Systems Research Research projects
Approaching optimal photosynthetic nitrogen partitioning and nitrogen distribution in the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) canopy for maximizing canopy photosynthesis

Approaching optimal photosynthetic nitrogen partitioning and nitrogen distribution in the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) canopy for maximizing canopy photosynthesis

Led by:  Prof. Dr. Hartmut Stützel
E-Mail:  stuetzel@gem.uni-hannover.de
Team:  MSc. Yi-Chen Pao
Year:  2015
Duration:  - derzeit

Light intensity varies considerably in the canopy as influenced by canopy architecture. In response to this within-canopy variation of light, the allocation of limiting resources, nitrogen (N), should be continuously modified in the canopy to achieve efficient utilization of light.

The main objective of the research is to explore the effect of environmental factors on the (1) partitioning of photosynthetic nitrogen in the leaves (referred to as “nitrogen partitioning”) and (2) nitrogen content distribution among leaves in the canopy (referred to as “nitrogen distribution”), and to use this knowledge to approach the optimum in the canopy which maximizes whole plant photosynthesis.

The knowledge gained should provide the basis about the influence of genotype, nitrogen availability, light environment and their interactions on nitrogen partitioning and nitrogen distribution. This provides insight in improving crop management for approaching maximal canopy assimilation through the manipulation of nitrogen distribution and partitioning in the cucumber canopy by horticultural practices.