Physiological Processes Limiting Plant Productivity

Book excerpt: Physiological Processes Limiting Plant Productivity presents the proceedings of the Thirtieth University of Nottingham Easter School in Agricultural Science held at Sutton Bonington in England on April 2-5, 1979. Contributors focus on physiological processes limiting plant growth and development in the context of agricultural productivity. Emphasis is placed on the fundamental mechanisms that underlie crop production and their control. This text is comprised of 20 chapters; the first of which discusses the genetics of crop physiology in relation to agricultural production. The range of problems that plant physiologists must address is considered, followed by an assessment of what is happening in crop physiology. A number of chapters are devoted to the utilization of light by crop plants, plant nutrition, water relations, and the effects of an adaptation to unfavorable conditions including those imposed by air pollution. The reader is also introduced to the influence of photoperiodism on crop production; gas exchange in water-stressed plants; and the use of water, solar energy, and fossil fuels in crop production. This book will be of interest to agriculturists, plant breeders, and researchers working in relevant aspects of plant biochemistry, physiology, and genetics.