The effect of mechanical perturbation on the growth and development of wheat

Abstract

Plants sense mechanical stimuli such as bending of the stem caused by the force of wind on the plants aerial surface. The response is known as Thigmomorphogenesis and includes a range of responses of which the most commonly reported is an immediate cessation of growth. This is followed by period of lag before growth resumes at its normal rate, which leads to shorter plants. The effect of Thigmomorphogenesis has been well characterised in diocots, and the use of mechanical treatment has been adapted for the control of height in commercial vegetable transplant production. However, the response of monocots is less understood. Wheat is the most important cereal crop in the UK, though it is prone to lodging due to factors including strong winds. Mechanical properties of the stem influence susce