The objective of the present study was to evaluate the morphology, biomass production and biomass partition of sunflower (Multissol cultivar) when subjected to water deficit at Pentecoste, CE - Brazil. An experimental design in randomized blocks was used as split plots in time (8 x 3) with four replications, with the treatments defined by the development stage for application of water deficit vegetative, flowering and formation of production stages corresponding to the occurrence of water deficit at stages 1, 2 or 3 and three evaluation periods at 52, 68 and 110 days after sowing. The plant height, number of leaves and stem diameter were negatively influenced by the isolated effects of the water deficits and evaluation periods. The water deficits and evaluation periods interacted and affected the leaf area, dry mass of leaves, petiole, stem, head and total. The best response in terms of growth and biomass production occurred in the treatment presenting no water deficit throughout the cycle. The irrigation deficits did not change the biomass partition. The irrigation level equivalent to 50% of the ETo compromised morphology and biomass production, when applied at any development stage.
Helianthus annuus L.; water stress; growth analysis
