Senescence of Flag Leaf and Glume in Rice: Role of Grains during Source‐Sink Modification by Physical and Chemical Means

Senescence of flag leaf and glume of rice ( Oryza sativa L. cv. Ratna ) at different source sink ratios, through manipulating the plants by physical and chemical means, were analyzed. As judged from the chlorophyll retention capacity, induction of sterility deferred senescence of flag leaf and glume at both grain filling and post grain maturation period. Senescence of the glumes was promoted in the plants whose panicles were darkened. The time needed for achieving maximum 1000 grain dry weight was quickened, the harvest index (HI) was lowered and the flag leaf senescence was delayed by such manipulation. Spraying of urea deferred senescence of the flag leaf as well as increased 1000 grain dry weight and HI. The time taken for achieving maximum 1000 grain dry weight was, however, delayed. Senescence of glumes was promoted by α‐HPMS spray, while the same was delayed by PMA spray on the whole plant. Both the chemicals deferred flag leaf senescence and decreased 1000 grain dry weight and HI. Senescence of the flag leaf at post grain filling period was also delayed by the above physical and chemical manipulations compared to that of control, the highest delaying effect was recorded in the flag leaf of sterile plant. It is concluded that nutrient drainage is the primary cause of nonsequential senescence of the flag leaf of rice (cv. Ratna ). The involvement of senescence signal if any, is perhaps of secondary importance.