FirstGrainsDeveloping

The FirstGrainsDeveloping phase in Lentil represents the developmental period from FirstPodsVisiable to FirstGrainsVisiable. This phase covers seed/grain initiation and early development within the developing pods.

Overview

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

  • This phase starts at FirstPodsVisiable and ends at FirstGrainsVisiable
  • The model uses daily thermal time, retrieved from the [Phenology].ThermalTime function
  • Seeds develop within pods and become visible
  • Grain/seed number per pod is established
  • The start of the grain-filling period begins

Grain Development Characteristics

During this phase:

  • Seeds (grains) initiate within visible pods
  • Seed coat and internal structures develop
  • Seed number per pod is determined
  • Continued flowering and pod development at upper nodes
  • Grains become visible as cream-colored structures within pods

Practical Considerations

Factors affecting grain development:

  1. Temperature: Controls the rate of grain development
  2. Water availability: Critical for maintaining seed set
  3. Photoperiod: Influences the duration of the grain-filling period
  4. Plant nutrition: Adequate nitrogen supports seed development
  5. Environmental stress: Water or temperature stress reduces grain set

The model simulates grain development as a thermal time-dependent process, which is important for predicting final grain number and yield potential.