A METHOD FOR ESTIMATING THE DEAD LEAF INDEX IN AN AREA UNDER CULTIVATION BASED ON LEAF MASSES - APPLICATION OF THE METHOD IN CONNECTION WITH JERUSALEM-ARTICHOKES

The quantification of the equivalent area of the dead leaves of a cano py is necessary for any quantitative study dealing with the dynamics o f leaf area index. A method to estimate this area from measurements no rmally performed in growth analysis is presented and tested. The metho d is parameterized and validated for two varieties of Jerusalem artich oke. Cautions for use are presented.