Luminosity levels action on growth of plants of maria-pretinha (Solanum americanum Mill.)

Abstract

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of light levels on performance and plasticity of Solanum americanum Mill plants. Twelve collections were made at regular intervals seven days after transplanting, and separated into organs. Luminosity levels of 35%, 65% and full light (100%) were used, and height, number of leaves, leaf area, relative growth rate of leaf area, shoot and root ratio, fruit dry matter ratio and total dry matter were evaluated. The highest number of leaves occurred in plants under 65% of luminosity, and the superior leaf area on those under luminosity of 35 and 65%. The relative growth rate of leaf area was higher on seventh day after transplanting in plants under luminosity of 35% and under full light. Plants under luminosity of 65% had a higher ratio of shoot and root and similar height. Dry matter ratio of fruit and total was quantitatively modified by reducing luminosity. The different levels of luminosity distinctly influenced growth and plasticity of S. americanum Mill plants.