Selection of rose cultivars for low light greenhouse production by photosynthetic features

The goal of this research was to Find a rapid and economic method for selecting rose (Rosa sp.) cultivars suitable for low light conditions. Cultivars Grand Prix and Tineke were used. On the basis of practical experience 'Grand Prix' is known to be more suitable for low light conditions. The cultivars were grown in two different light regimes for two weeks. Then the net carbon dioxide exchange, light compensation point and leaf chlorophyll fluorescence characteristics were measured. Also leaf anatomy and morphological features were examined. Apparently, most of the features measured are dependent both on the growth light intensity as well as on the cultivar. At low light intensity. 'Grand Prix' possessed higher photosynthetic rates, higher chlorophyll contents and higher biomass production than 'Tineke'. Thus, any of these features might have potential for a rapid screening method for low light conditions, and further studies are needed to evaluate the best method for screening plants for low light.