Variability of Plant Growth Within Controlled-Environment Chambers as Related to Temperature and Light Distribution

Measurements of temperature and light intensity were made at different locations within three growth chambers. Environmental factors were found to vary with location. A great variability in the growth and development of cucumber and corn was noted in plants grown within these growth chambers. This "position effect" significantly affected the population homogeneity at the 5% level. The possibility of a bias of experimental data and the requirement for randomization and rotation of plants within a growth chamber are highlighted by the present study.