Chapter 39: Q39.4-2CC (page 863)
A greenhouse worker finds that potted chrysanthemums nearest the aisles are often shorter than those in the middle of the bench. Explain this 鈥渆dge effect,鈥 a common problem in horticulture.
Short Answer
The potted chrysanthemum nearest the aisle gets subjected to mechanical stress and air currents. The plants potted in the middle of the bench grow taller due to less mechanical stress and fewer air currents. The shading and less evaporative stress assist the plants鈥 development in good condition.