Effect of Photoperiod on the Flowering of Lathyrus latifolius L.

Abstract

The effect of photoperiod on the flowering of Lathyrus latifolius L. was studied by using 'Pink Pearl', 'Red Pearl' and 'White pearl'. Plants were exposed to an 8-hr photoperiod under natural daylight. The photoperiod was extended with 60W incandescent lamps to give an 8- to 24-hrs day. Under photoperiods at and above 14-hr, flower buds were initiated ; the days from bud formation to flowering were shortened in plants grown under a 16-hr photoperiod or if the night was interrupted for 2 hr beginning at midnight. Earlier sowing resulted in earlier flowering, if the plants were subjected to a 16-hr photoperiod.