A study on ecophysiology of tea (Camellia sinensis) with special reference to the influence of climatic factors on physiology of a few selected tea clones of Darjeeling

Abstract

Influence of climatic factors viz, ambient temperature, photosynthetically active radiation, wind velocity, sunshine hour on various physiological parameters of three Darjeeling tea clones was studied. Net photosynthesis, stomata1 conductance, transpiration and leaf water potential of the tea plants were badly affected during drought. Rate of photosynthesis was lowest in April. In dry period, humidity was found to be the most important limiting factor. Low temperature and high rainfall affected net photosynthesis, though to a lesser extent as compared to drought. Post monsoon period was found to be most conducive for physiological activity. High light intensity was not a limiting factor as long as moisture was adequate. Seasonal variation of physiological parameters was pronounced but there was no significant variation among three clones.