The influence of temperature, light energy and photoperiod on flowering of Brodiaea laxa Wats.

Abstract

Temperature and light requirements for a satisfactory forcing of Brodiaea laxa 'Koningin Fabiola' were studied. Corms were planted under different temperature and light conditions in a phytotron and in different photoperiods in the open. Long days accelerated flower development and the termination of growth and enhanced corm formation. Considering both earliness and number of flowers, the most acceptable results with regard to flower production were obtained at 18 degrees C. in short photoperiods. Forcing at higher temperatures and in longer photoperiods resulted in a reduction in the number of flowers because of bud blasting. This also occurred when the natural short day was extended by high light intensities. Forced and retarded corms reacted similarly but the latter flowered sooner and more satisfactorily. Flowering was preceded under all conditions by corm formation and in longer photoperiods even by senescence of the leaves. Year-round production of flowers is possible if 25 cal./sq.cm./day of light energy or more are available.- Agric. Univ., Wageningen. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)