Root Temperature, Water Relations, and Cold Hardiness in Two Citrus Rootstocks1

Abstract

Abstract The influence of root temperature on whole-plant water relations and cold hardiness in seedlings of 2 citrus rootstocks—rough lemon ( Citrus jambhiri Lush.) and Carrizo citrange [ C. sinensis (L.) Osbeck × Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.]—and ‘Valencia’ scions on both rootstocks was examined. Plants were exposed to root temperatures of 5°, 10°, or 15°C for 5–8 weeks, while shoots were exposed to a nonacclimating air temperature of 30°. Root temperatures of 5° decreased leaf xylem water potential and increased cold hardiness. Statistical differences in diffusive resistance and transpiration were observed only at the 5° root temperature. Root temperature did not significantly alter leaf relative water content in either seedlings or budded plants. A decrease in soil and root temperature alone, without a simultaneous reduction in air temperature, can provide an effective cold-acclimating environment for citrus.