UF Scientists Get $495,000 Grant to Study Speed of Plant Growth

IN ORDER TO IMPROVE photosynthesis in plant leaves, two University of Florida scientists will study their roots and stems.

- BRAD BUCK, UF/IFAS correspondent

More specifically, Christopher Vincent and Fred Gmitter hope to find the optimal relationship between citrus tree “sources” and “sinks” so that plant breeders can select varieties — and growers can use practices — that lead to faster-growing plants.

Some crops that grow faster yield better food and get to market earlier, rather than later.

So, what are these “sources” and “sinks” the researchers are talking about? In this case, “sources” are the leaves where photosynthesis takes place to make carbohydrates – such as sugars, starches and cellulose – that are needed for all aspects of plant growth. “Sinks” are the places those carbohydrates are used – think fruits, roots and newly growing stems.