Osmotic Adjustment and Stomatal Characteristics of the Secale cereale X Secale montanum Cross Permontra

Osmotic behavior, photosynthesis and leaf conductance under drought stress as well as stomatal morphology and stomatal recovery after stress were investigated in the drought tolerant Secale cereale x Secale montanum cross Permontra , five S. cereale cultivars and the wild rye S. montanum.
Water relations parameters were measured on potted plants during and after a 7 day stress period.
Osmotic adjustment occurred in all varieties but was greatest in Permontra. Size and frequency of stomata was not related to drought tolerance but stomatal recovery after stress was quickest in Permontra.