Effect of water deficit on proline accumulation, protein and chlorophyll content during flowering and seed formation in winter rape (Brassica napus L. var. oleifera)

Water deficit affecting winter rape plants during flowering and seed formation caused metabolic responses characteristic for drought. Proline accumulation took place in the leaves, the inflorescences and in the siliques. Protein content during flowering and seed formation was reduced in all rape organs except leaves in the latter stage. The decrease of chlorophyll content in the leaves was greater during the period of seed formation than during flowering.