Whole Plant Senescence

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses causes of monocarpic senescence and senescence in polycarpic plants and clones. Whole plant senescence is viewed primarily in terms of leaf senescence and it is measured mainly through chloroplastic parameters such as chlorophyll loss and decreased photosynthesis. In monocarpic plants where senescence and death closely follow reproductive development, the senescence (monocarpic senescence) is often controlled by the developing reproductive structures. In these cases, removal of the reproductive structures or prevention of their development usually prolongs the life of the plant. Monocarpic plants cease their vegetative growth fairly abruptly early in their reproductive phase. Conversely, the perennial polycarpic pattern requires continued vegetative growth. This prominent shift (diversion) in growth-related allocation of resources in monocarpy seems to be part of a reproductive strategy that optimizes reproductive output for the plants. This diversion/withdrawal is often quite prominent that leads to monocarpic senescence.