3.2.2. Reproductive phase

  3.2.2. Reproductive phase

 

   The reproductive phase may be subdivided into three stages which are panicle initiation, internode elongation, and heading stage. The  length of the reproductive phase are generally constant for most varieties. The phase is approximately 35 days. The initiation of the panicle primordium at the tip of the growing shoot marks the reproductive phase. Panicle initiation occurs about 60 to 70 days before the expected date of maturity of any variety. The time when the internode elongation stage occurs differs among varieties. With long growth duration varieties, it may begin earlier than the reproductive phase. With short growth duration varieties, it usually begins after panicle initiation. The emergence of the panicle tip out of flag leaf sheath marks heading stage. In some varieties, the panicle completely protrudes from the sheath. In other varieties or at low temperature, the panicle may protrude only partially.