Citrus variegated chlorosis (CVC) is a disease that has caused serious economical losses in citrus grove located in the North and Northeastern regions of São Paulo State, where water deficiency and high temperature occur frequently. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of water deficiency on the development of physiological symptoms in 'Natal' sweet orange plants with CVC. Measurements of leaf water potential, transpiration, stomatal conductance e CO2 assimilation were taken in plants under natural conditions and submitted to irrigation. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, with five replications. Stomatal conductance, daily transpiration and leaf water potential were lower in CVC-affected plants. The daily CO2 assimilation was reduced in CVC-affected plants, even in irrigated ones. In fact, irrigation decreased the negative effects of CVC, however, it did not prevent disease establishment in sweet orange plants inoculated with Xylella fastidiosa. Compared to other treatments, infected plants submitted to natural conditions (without irrigation) exhibited higher constrain of leaf gas exchange, even when measurements were taken during humid period (summer).
Citrus sinensis; gas exchange; water relations; Xylella fastidiosa
