Mathematical-Logic to Simulate the Growth of Two Perennial Grasses
ABSTRACT MATHEMATICAL-logic was developed to reflect the relationships between growth (accumulation of dry matter) and air temperature, day length, leaf area, photoperiod, and rainfall. These relationships were incorporated in a nonspecific crop growth model (GROWIT). The validity of the model was demonstrated by simulating experiments with fescue and coastal bermuda grass. The simulated yields of dry matter did not differ significantly from the experimental yields. Yields of fescue were significantly lower in 1976 than in 1977, and the model indicated that insufficient water during critical periods was responsible, even though the rainfall for 1976 was only 5% below normal. Yields of coastal bermuda grass were lower in 1965 than in 1966, and the model showed that air temperature and rainfall were constraints on growth during 1965 as compared to 1966.