Early spring is a tricky time for plants due to the combination of sunny but still quite cold days.
To transform atmospheric CO2 into organic molecules, plants can use the energy from
Carbon capture is performed by the green parts of plants via photosynthesis.
A complex microbiota lives belowground, releasing carbon dioxide to the soil.
The rate of respiration decreases with temperature.
When there is low soil moisture, plants close its stomata pores which then decreases photosynthesis.
High soil moisture leads to decreased photosynthesis.
In boreal upland forests, low soil moisture decreases the rate of photosynthesis.
In some part of the stems, some photosynthesis may also occur.
De-hardening in spring involves gradual re-hydration of the cells, recovery of photosynthetic capacity and a tight control of water loss.
Leaf area increases with stand age, resulting in a decreasing rate of photosynthesis in the stand.
An increment in leaf area increases also the photosynthesis of a tree stand. However, the relationship is saturating.
Photosynthesis of a tree canopy is driven or influenced by
photosynthetically active solar radiation (PAR).
air temperature (T).
the total leaf area (LAI).
air humidity (VPD).
soil moisture (REW).
What is the source of carbon that is assimilated in photosynthesis?
At low air humidity, a plant closes its stomata to prevent transpiration. The action also decreases photosynthesis
In general, the more carbon dioxide that is available to the plant, the faster the rate of photosynthesis - if other factors are favourable.
As plants respire, they release
Photosynthesis releases oxygen whereas respiration releases CO2.