Lipids in rye seedlings in relation to vernalization

Increasing the chilling time from 1 to 8 weeks decreased the time to heading of winter rye (Secale cereale var. Sangaste) to approximate that of the spring variety (Prolific). On a dry weight basis, the total phospholipid content of the embryos was higher in Sangaste but declined in both varieties during chilling. The proportions of the individual phospholipid components were similar for both varieties and showed similar responses during the 8-week chilling period. Phosphatidylcholine declined and phosphatidic acid increased in both varieties during the treatment.