The Effect of Quantum Flux Density, Day and Night Temperature and Phosphorus and Potassium Status on Anthocyanin and Chlorophyll Content in Marigold Leaves1

Abstract

Abstract A temperature of 10°C resulted in the greatest synthesis of anthocyanins in foliage of marigold (Tagetespatula L.) regardless of whether cold was applied during the day or night. Response surface techniques were used to determine combinations of light and temperature which result in equal levels of anthocyanin or chlorophyll. Predicted responses indicate that as night temperature increased from 10 to 26°C, a wide range of quantum flux densities and day temperatures resulted in low anthocyanin content. Night temperature of 10° and high day temperature resulted in the same chlorophyll content as 26° night temperature and low day temperature if quantum flux density was low. No significant correlation was found between anthocyanin level and foliar phosophorus or potassium.