Analysis of primary and secondary growth and modelling growth dynamics of olive shoots (Olea europaea L.)

SummaryUnderstanding growth rate in woody plants is an essential criterion for the establishment of tree architecture, and therefore of future tree form. Olive seedlings exist as three main tree structures: bushy, mixed, and tree-form. Growth dynamics were observed on different types of shoots of these different forms throughout the growing season. Both primary growth (elongation and developed metamers) and secondary growth (basal diameter increment) were considered. To study the inter-annual pattern of shoot growth, simple linear regressions were performed between shoot properties measured at the beginning and at the end of the vegetative season. Positive correlations were obtained for all growth parameters. Allometric relationships between primary and secondary growth indicated that the increment in basal diameter was related to primary growth. Bud size and the contents of primordia were compared to the structure of the future shoot and leaves produced after the Spring and Autumn growth flushes. Shoots ...