FirstFlowersDeveloping

The FirstFlowersDeveloping phase in Lentil represents the developmental period from FirstBudsVisiable to FirstFlowersSet. This phase covers the development of visible floral buds until flowers open and set.

Overview

The GenericPhase model simulates the flower development using daily Thermal Time.

  • This phase starts at FirstBudsVisiable and ends at FirstFlowersSet
  • The model uses daily thermal time, retrieved from the [Phenology].ThermalTime function
  • The Target thermal time is cultivar-specific and determined by [Phenology].TtFlowerDevelopment
  • Floral structures develop and flowers prepare to open
  • Environmental stress can affect flower development

Flower Development Characteristics

During this phase:

  • Visible buds develop into flowers
  • Floral organs (sepals, petals, stamens, pistils) complete development
  • Flower quality and viability are established
  • Lower nodes flower first, followed by upper nodes in acropetal succession
  • The duration is primarily temperature-dependent

Cultivar-Specific Parameters

Name Description Default Value
[Phenology].TtFlowerDevelopment Accumulated thermal time from budding to flowering (°Cd) 200

Practical Considerations

Factors affecting flower development:

  1. Temperature: Higher temperatures accelerate flower development
  2. Water stress: Can reduce flower quality and increase flower abortion
  3. Photoperiod: Can influence the rate of flower development
  4. Cultivar differences: Different cultivars have varying flower development rates

The model simulates this critical phase to predict when flowers will set, which is essential for understanding pod and grain production potential.