Date of Award:

5-1969

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Plants, Soils, and Climate

Department name when degree awarded

Plant Science

Committee Chair(s)

DeVere R. McAllister

Committee

DeVere R. McAllister

Committee

W. F. Campbell

Committee

R. J. Hanks

Abstract

The behavior of seedlings of six sorghum cultivars planted at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 centimeters was studied in growth chambers at air temperatures of 28, 32, 36, and 40 centigrades (daytime).

A day length of 12 hours and a nighttime air temperature 8 centigrades lower than daytime were used throughout.

The cultivars, three hybrids and three varieties, were grown in sand culture. Field moisture capacity was maintained during the period of observation.

After 14 days of growth, data were collected on the emergence percentages, above ground growth, above ground oven dry weights, below ground growth, and below ground oven dry weights.

Under the conditions of this investigation, depth of planting was more highly related to the emergence and development of the seedlings than any other factor. The most favorable depth of planting was 2.5 centimeters.

In general, hybrids were superior to standard open pollinated lines.

The above ground oven dry weights of the seedlings increased in direct proportion to air temperature; the below ground oven dry weights decreased with increased temperatures.

Top firing of the leaves was observed at 40 centimeters for all cultivars tested.

Checksum

b4991720666e60a9713861786554a3d2

Share

COinS