Changes in photosynthetic parameters in ‘Stayman’/Malling Merton (MM) 111 apple ( Malus domestica Borkh.) trees measuring 5 m wide and 4 m high were studied for an entire growing season. Parameters investigated included penetration of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), changes in spur leaf net photosynthetic (Pn) potential, dark respiration (Rd) and specific leaf weight (SLW). As measured by changes in PAR penetration, canopy development was generally complete by mid-May. Pn, Rd, and SLW were modified by canopy position. SLW was influenced by the previous light environment as peripheral canopy leaves had higher SLW’s than interior leaves.
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Porpiglia et al. (1980) studied this question.