Determinacy in buckwheat is characterized by a determinate growth habit, where the growth of the main stem and lateral branches ceases after the formation of a specific number of nodes and inflorescences. This trait, genetically fixed by the det mutation, distinguishes such varieties from indeterminate forms prone to unrestricted growth and prolonged flowering.
The trait is evaluated through metamerism analysis, recording the number of vegetative and generative nodes on the stem and branches. In determinate plants, inflorescences bloom almost simultaneously, which allows for direct combine harvesting. The compactness of the plant and balanced distribution of assimilates increase crop resistance to lodging and drought, and reduce flower and fruit drop.
This plant type possesses improved specific root and leaf support for filling seeds, as resources are not expended on excessive vegetative growth. Variety descriptions include morphological indicators of plant structure, such as the total number of inflorescences and nodes, which is strictly limited by the genetic program of a specific variety.
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Determinacy.