Effect of Wind Velocity on Photosynthesis, Sap Flux, and Damage of Leaves in Apple Trees

This study was carried out to determine the effects of wind speed on physiological responses in ‘Fuji’ apple (Malus pumila Miller). Two levels of wind blowing (3 and 5 m·s �1 ) were produced by large electric fans. Photosynthetic rate was reduced by one-way wind blowing treatment at 5 m·s �1 , compared to the mild wind control, and this reduction was more obvious with stronger wind and increasing duration of wind application. The reduction in photosynthesis by the wind treatments was correlated with that in the proportion of opened stomates and stomatal conductance. The one-way wind treatment at 5 m·s �1 caused a leaf browning and leaf fall, and this negative effect became more serious with increasing time of exposure to the wind treatments. The sap flux through stem increased in all wind treatments compared to the natural mild wind.