Principles-of-Crop-Science-CRS001-Part-2b

Liebig’s Law of the Minimum

States that the growth factor in lowest supply sets the capacity for yield.

Blackman’s Theory of Optima

Suggests that the rate of a process is limited by the slowest factor when multiple factors condition its speed.

Mitscherlich’s Law of Diminishing Return

Indicates that plant growth response is proportional to the limiting element, with increased growth but not in direct proportion.

Morphogenesis

The process of shaping three-dimensional structures through the aggregation and distribution of cells.

Meristems

Specialized growth zones in plants where cells divide rapidly, found at the tips of roots and shoots.

Apical dominance

The phenomenon where the auxin supply from the apical bud suppresses the growth of lateral buds.

Growth Curve

Illustrates the rate of growth of a plant over its lifespan as a sigmoid or S-shaped curve.

Auxins

Plant hormones that promote cell elongation and have various effects on growth and development.

Gibberellins

A family of compounds that stimulate stem elongation and play a role in seed germination.

Cytokinins

Plant hormones that promote cell division, particularly in tissue culture.

Abscisic Acid

A plant hormone that plays roles in stomatal closure and stress response, often seen as an inhibitor.

Tropic movements

Movements in plants that occur in response to environmental stimuli, like phototropism (light) and gravitropism (gravity).

Differentiation

The process marking the outward signs of selective gene action and changes in a cell's biochemical program.

Cellular Basis of Growth

Refers to how cell division and expansion determine characteristics such as cell size and shape.

Regulation of Growth

Control and coordination of growth in plants, influenced by naturally occurring plant growth regulators.

Endogenous rhythm

Recurring events in plants that are not directly linked to environmental fluctuations, like circadian rhythms.

Biochemical adaptation

Refers to biochemical changes in plants that enhance survival, such as increased water-holding capacity during stress.

Fruit ripening

A process often influenced by hormones like auxins and ethylene, leading to the maturation of fruit.

Plant Growth regulators

Substances that influence plant growth and development, including natural hormones and synthetic compounds.

Zygote

The product of fertilization that develops into a multicellular organism through embryogenesis.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants convert sunlight into chemical energy using chlorophyll.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment found in plants that is essential for photosynthesis.

Cellular Respiration

The process by which cells break down glucose to produce energy in the form of ATP.

Transpiration

The process of water movement through a plant and its evaporation from aerial parts.

Stomata

Small openings on plant leaves that regulate gas exchange, including CO2 and O2.

Mineral Nutrients

Essential elements that plants require for growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Soil pH

A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil, affecting nutrient availability in plants.

Plant Pathology

The study of diseases in plants caused by pathogens, environmental conditions, or genetic factors.

Germination

The process by which a seed develops into a new plant, starting with the sprouting of roots.

Pollination

The transfer of pollen from male anthers to female stigmas in flowers, leading to fertilization.