SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM STOMATAL RESPONSES TO FLUCTUATIONS IN ENVIRONMENT IN SOUTHERN EUROPEAN GREENHOUSES

Stomatal behaviour in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) was analysed and modelled as a function of different greenhouse environmental parameters, under Variable summer conditions. Solar radiation was the main regulating factor. During the day, large atmospheric vapour pressure deficit increased transpiration which was followed by a reduction in stomatal aperture, suggesting the presence of a feedback response to water stress. However, stomatal behaviour was more sensitive to high atmospheric vapour pressure deficit when this was accompanied by a rapid decrease of solar radiation. The response to the difference between leaf and air temperature was also influenced by air vapour pressure deficit and duration of plant exposure to high evaporative demand. Calculation of the crop water stress index showed that the air vapour pressure deficit of 1 kPa used in the control treatment probably caused water stress and induced some hardening, a necessary condition for adaptation to summer climate in southern Europe. The importance of the interaction between climatic parameters and plant response in greenhouse environmental management is analysed. Classical models of stomatal resistance are also discussed.