Investigation of dry matter partitioning amount between different organs in faba (Vicia faba L.)

Quantitative information regarding biomass partitioning in faba (Vicia faba L.) is limited. The purpose of this study was to obtain the values of the distribution coefficients of dry matter between different parts of faba plant under different sowing dates and densities conditions. This experiment was conducted in Gonbad Kavoos during 2012-2013 in rainfed conditions. Experimental design was a factorial arrangement of treatments based on randomized complete block design with four replications. The treatments were combinations of sowing dates (27 November 2012, 14 December 2012 and 7 January 2013) and four plant densities (8, 12, 16 and 20 plants m-2). Dry weight of the separation of different organs and phenological stages were measured between emergence and maturity. A linear relation was found for biomass partitioning between leaves and stems before podding stage (R3). Ratio of dry matter distribution among leaf and stem on 27November 2012, 14 December 2012 and 7 January 2013 were 62:37, 60:39 and 54:40, respectively. Dry matter that was dedicated to stem more than leaf. On the other hand competition between of plants had not significant effect on dry matter distribution. Dispersion between data was more after podding stage than before it, which is probably due to translocation of dry mater.