Effects of water stress on growth and water relations of young grafted tea.

Abstract

The effects of soil water stress on some physiological parameters and dry matter partitioning (dm) were studied in grafted tea plants (Camellia sinensis L.) grown in containers and subjected to adequate and reduced water contents. Effects of reduced water content and rootstocks on growth, dry matter partitioning of young grafted tea were evaluated. There were significant variations in different attributes among clones and water regimes. Water contents significantly (P≤0.05) affected root lengths. Clonal variations were also evident with scions clones grafted on rootstocks EPK TN 14-3, TRFK 57/15 and TRFK 303/577 under water stress regimes indicates some tolerance to low water contents. Leaf water potential was lower in water stressed plants than well watered ones. Water stress significantly (P≤0.05) affected dm partitioning, with more dm being allocated to roots under water stress conditions. Leaf area and stem diameter declined with water stress, while root length density increased. It is concluded that physiological parameters and dry matter allocation are influenced by water stress and rootstocks.