Solar Radiation

1. Solar energy provides light required for seed germination, leaf expansion, growth of stem and shoot, flowering, fruiting and thermal conditions necessary for the physiological functions of the plant.
2. Solar radiation plays an important role as regulator and controller of growth and development.
3. Solar radiation also influences assimilation of nutrient and dry matter distribution.

The basic principle for increasing yield is harvesting more solar energy.
All the management practices like

1. Optimum time of sowing
2. Optimum plant population
3. Timely application of fertilizers
4. Irrigation management etc. are aimed at increasing the interception of solar radiation by the foliage so as to get more yield.

Optimum Plant Population