A statistical study of the formation of lateral roots in Pisum sativum L. under constant conditions

Abstract

The dynamics of the germination and formation of lateral roots under constant conditions were studied in pea Pisum sativum L., cv. Pyram. Various parameters of the above processes were evaluated statistically. The time at which the germination proceeds at the maximum rate was found to be 24·9 h from the start of the imbibition of seeds. The standard deviation of the germination time of an individual seed from the time corresponding to the maximum of germinated seeds was found to be 4·0 h. The formation of the lateral root primordia took place at 54·2 ± 2·9 h. At 73·5 ± 5·5 h from the beginning of the experiment, laterals on the surfaces of primary roots of seedlings became apparent. Differential curves of the distribution of the above processes were plotted graphically. The data obtained are valid for the given conditions and given experimental procedure. The methods described can be used in studies of primary root branching in various plant species.