Combined effects of ozone and water stress on alfalfa growth and yield (journal version)

1988 
The interactive effects of ozone (O/sub 3/) and water stress on alfalfa were studied to determine how water stress could alter these functions, and to describe the cumulative effects of multiple-year exposures to O/sub 3/ on this perennial crop. Water stress reduced total seasonal yield about 10% in 1984 and 27% in 1985. Ozone significantly reduced yields in both years, and the interaction between O/sub 3/ and water stress was statistically significant in 1985 and for combined 1984 and 1985 years. Ozone dose-alfalfa yield loss functions were homogeneous between 1984 and 1985, and no evidence of a cumulative effect of multiple-year exposure to O/sub 3/ was found on top growth. However, crown (underground stem) weights were significantly reduced by O/sub 3/, suggesting that continued exposure to O/sub 3/ could shorten the productive life of alfalfa stands, in addition to its effect on yield.
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