ABSTRACT
A quantitative evaluation of dry matter production requires a knowledge of the net photosynthesis of individual leaves, as well as that of the total leaf area. Leaf foliage density is commonly characterized by the “leaf area index” developed by Watson (1947). The leaf area index is the leaf area subtended per unit area of land. This index usually includes only leaf blades, but the photosynthetically active leaf sheath should also be included (Thorne, 1959).
