2025-10-01 GENETIC RESOURCES AND CROP EVOLUTION 2025 72(卷), 7(期), (8405-8417页)
This study investigates the germination, growth potential, and phenological behavior of Chaenomeles japonica-(Thunb.)Lindl. ex Spach. under the climatic conditions of Uzbekistan, incorporating data from similar regional studies. We focus on the influence of air temperature variations during winter and spring on the plant growth and flowering periods. Notably, C. japonica in Uzbekistan initiates its ontogenesis and begins flowering one to one and a half months earlier compared to its natural environment. The flowering period is extended, although high summer temperatures and low humidity present unfavorable conditions for optimal growth. The study also explores the plant response to climate change and its phenological adjustments, highlighting its potential for cultivation in arid regions. The Chaenomeles japonica growing in continental climate, characterized by cold winters, early warm springs, hot summers, and low humidity. The climatic conditions trigger earlier ontogenesis and flowering, with secondary flowering observed in autumn. In addition to phenology, leaf anatomy and palynological characteristics were examined to assess the plant adaptive traits. The adaxial epidermis features polygonal or elongated cells with an average of 105 cells per unit area. The presence of peltate-shaped glands (8 per unit area) suggests an adaptation to environmental stress. On the abaxial surface, actinocytic-type stomata and glandular trichomes (13 per unit area) further indicate strategies for moisture retention. Pollen analysis reveals tricolpate grains with scabrate sculpturing, and a high fertility rate of 90.24%. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of C. japonica adaptations to arid climates and its potential for growth and conservation in Uzbekistan.