Abstract

BLACK, KIM. 1980. How to protect plants against heat. Am. Nurseryman 152(12): 68-74, 89.

The growth of plants is restricted to a definite temperature range. Growth proceeds smoothly within the optimum range and begins to decline once that range is surpassed. In the case of plants, there is a rapid increase in growth in the 40° to 60° range, followed by a steady increase above 60° until the optimum range 65° to 85°? is reached. Temperatures above 85° lead to a decline in growth, the rate of which increases as the thermal death point is approached. Plants must be protected from these excessive temperatures if they are to survive and flourish. Leaf temperatures can have a tremendous impact on plant growth. When leaf temperatures are in the optimum range, plant activity increases, which is turn stimulates growth. The opposite is true when leaf temperatures rise too high. Adequate soil temperatures must be maintained if the roots are to develop and grow properly. Optimum root growth generally occurs when the soil temperature is between 75° and 85°. The previous discussions on leaf and root temperatures show what damage can result when these influences are left unchecked. Learning how to safeguard against these problems is critical if plantsmen are to obtain the results they desire.

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