Effect of different night temperature regimes on the assimilation, transport and metabolism of carbon in rose plants

A decrease in CO₂ uptake, an increase in leaf starch and sucrose content and a decrease in the content of reducing sugars were found in rose ( Rosa hybrida cvs: Sonia and Golden Times) plants exposed to lower night temperature (12°C) in comparison with those grown at 18°C. These responses were not present when plants were grown under a night temperature regime of alternating temperature, 2 h at 18°C followed by 2 h at 12°C for 3 repetitive periods of a total of 12 h. The export of labelled carbon from the source leaves and translocation into the adjacent axillary buds were inhibited by lower night temperature, but not by the alternating temperature regime. The translocation of labelled carbon toward the basal plant parts was promoted by the lower temperature but not by alternating temperature. The partitioning of labelled carbon between the 2 uppermost lateral buds was also affected by the night temperature regime.