OPTIMIZATION OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS PROCESSES IN CUCUMBER PLANTS IN SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM LOW TEMPERATURE TREATMENTS
We have analysed model data and revealed significant distinctions in the rate of photosynthesis and optimum condition ranges between cucumber (Cucumus sativus L., Zozulya ev.) plants exposed early in the ontogeny to long-term and to short-term low hardening temperatures. Continuous exposure to low temperature significantly inhibited photosynthesis, narrowed the optimum range and shifted it towards lower temperature and light values, whereas variations in daily temperature, on the contrary, enhanced the adaptation capacity of cucumber plants through notable expansion of the range optimal for photosynthesis.