Soybean tolerance to defoliation at the vegetative and reproductive stages as a function of water restriction

Water deficiency reduces leaf expansion and photosynthetic efficiency, potentially reducing the ability to withstand area (LA) loss. This study aimed evaluate effects of water restriction on soybean tolerance defoliation in vegetative reproductive periods development. Two experiments were conducted a greenhouse located Lages, Santa Catarina State Brazil, during 2017/2018 growing season. Cultivar NA 5909 RG was subjected three WR levels (none, moderate, severe) five (0, 17, 33, 50, 67%). Defoliation occurred at V6 stage first experiment R3 second. for 7 days after defoliation. LA R2 R5 decreased by 27.5 64.6%, respectively, regardless WR. between not influenced or Moderate severe reduced plant recover R5. Severe grain production 22.2% period 21.2% per compared that control, The highest level 24.7 24.3% relative control stages R3, imposed did increase sensitivity.