SOME EFFECTS OF WATER AND OXYGEN ON ABSCISSION IN VITRO

Abstract

Immersion in water of excised foliar abscission zones of the Black Valentine bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) inhibits abscission. The inhibition is removed by increasing the oxygen level. The rate of abscission in water is proportional to the oxygen level up to 55%. The rate of abscission in a gaseous atmosphere is proportional to the oxygen level up to 40%. Above 55% and 40%, respectively, the rate is the same.