Distribution of dry matter during the growth of Solanum laciniatum

Abstract

The dry weights of root,stem, and leaves of Solanum laciniatum plants were measured for four seasons from 1974 to 1978. In 1974–75 and 1976–77 the increase in leaf dry weight was linear.In 1975–76 and 1977–78, however,there was an initial lag period followed by a linear increase in leaf dry weight.Stem and root dry weights for each season showed a lag period before a linear increase in dry weight.The proportion of dry weight in leaves was greatest in young plants and decreased as the plants matured.Stems were a minor component in young plants but increased to make up the major component of mature plants (>50%).The root component was greatest in very young plants (about 25%),then decreased,and thereafter remained at a low level (about 20%).