Leaf attitude in olive in relation to drought resistance

Abstract

SummaryThe observation that during drought olive leaves move upwards (adaxially) was found to be related to leaf turgor. The result of such movement is greater exposure of the silvery, hairy underside of the leaves, increasing the reflection of radiation. The consequences of this change have been determined in terms of leaf turgor and leaf temperature, stomatal opening, water loss from leaves etc. The leaf attitude itself is determined by the water status of the plant and can be modified by season in the field and/or irrigation. This mechanism may represent an effective means for increasing drought resistance.