Foliage acclimatization to variable light conditions integrates adjustments in plant morphology and physiology in Polyscias filicifolia
| Main Authors: | Senevirathne S.M.P., Hettiarachchi M.H.S.M., Dilrukshi R.P.W.A., Beneragama C.K. |
|---|---|
| Format: | Article Journal |
| Bahasa: | eng |
| Terbitan: |
, 2020
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: |
https://zenodo.org/record/4384729 |
Daftar Isi:
- Foliage ornamentals are classified as “shade plants” and “sun plants” by growers based on their light requirement. As a result, people tend to be more selective in growing foliage ornamentals. Polyscias filicifolia is a popular foliage ornamental which is regarded as a plant preferring partial shade. If this plant can be acclimatized in to different light environments with beneficial changes in plant architecture, it would massively benefit the industry. This study was conducted to assess the acclimatization potential of Polyscias filicifolia to variable light conditions and to study its morphological and physiological adjustments. Selected plants were grown in plastic pots of 15 cm diameter in a standard foliage plant medium. Plants were exposed to different light levels as four treatments. Namely, full sunlight (open), 50% shade (green nets), 50% shade (black nets) and 80% shade (black nets). For shading purpose, available commercial black polypropylene shade nets and common garden green shade nets were used. Growth and morphological measurements of leaf, root, stem and whole plant were recorded at 100 days after planting. Results of the study revealed significant differences in leaf growth, leaf morphology, plant height, stem and root growth among different treatments, depicting the phenotypic plasticity of Polyscias filicifolia. Plants grown under black shade nets were more aesthetically appealing. It can be concluded that Polyscias filicifolia has the potential to be acclimatized in to variable light conditions with adjustments in plant morphology and physiology.