Physiological Performance of Mimosa pudica L. under Different Light Quality and Photoperiods

Abstract

In the present study, we examined the light quality and photoperiod-dependent physiological performance of Mimosa pudica. Plants were grown in pots under white, blue, green and red-light compositions under 12 h per day (12/12 h) and 24 h per day (24/0 h) for 12 days. After 12 days, the physiological parameters’ morphology, fresh weight, chlorophyll fluorescence and biochemical analyses, which include antioxidants, lipid peroxidation, pigment content and carbohydrate content were also measured. Necrosis was found in red, blue and green light and the plant was senesced at the end of the experiment. The blue 24-h light period showed the highest pigment and antioxidant content, whereas the lowest was observed in green light conditions. The OJIP curve was complete in white light, hence it was not completely formed in red, blue and green light. The phenomenological parameters also fluctuated in different light conditions. Photosynthesis ultimately results in starch content, which was highest in blue light and lowest in red light. Different monochromatic light qualities inhibited plant growth by reducing the activity of photosynthetic apparatus in plants. White light was more effective in driving photosynthesis and promoting the plant growth, while green and red light showed a suppressive effect on plants’ growth. The 24 h photoperiod was also accompanied by various spectra to reduce the plants’ growth. The results clearly indicate that the photoperiod and light spectrum must be considered before growing plants in a greenhouse.