Demonstrative simulations of L-PEACH: a computer-based model to understand how peach trees grow

G. Lopez, D. Da Silva, I. Auzmendi, R.R. Favreau, T.M. DeJong
L-PEACH is a computer-based model that simulates the distribution of light in the peach canopy as the tree grows and carbohydrate assimilation of each leaf. The model integrates important concepts to simulate water and carbon transport within the tree with real environmental input data collected from weather stations. Tree architecture is based on developmental principles governing tree growth and detailed measurements of shoots of peach trees. While running L-PEACH, realistic three-dimensional depictions of simulated growing trees can be displayed on the computer screen for visualization of tree architecture. The L-PEACH model has been widely reported in the literature along with quantitative data generated during simulations. However, demonstrative simulations were never disseminated to the scientific community and they are an essential component for understanding the model and demonstrating principles of tree growth. Along with the modeling work several movies with demonstrative simulations of L-PEACH have been made public in a scientific repository to complement existing references. Demonstrative simulations are related with overall tree growth and the movement of carbon within the tree, detailed growth of leaves and fruit and responses of tree growth to pruning intensity, drought and size-controlling rootstocks. In this work each demonstrative simulation will be accompanied by a physiological and/or horticultural description to demonstrate the value of L-PEACH to study, understand and teach how trees grow.
Lopez, G., Da Silva, D., Auzmendi, I., Favreau, R.R. and DeJong, T.M. (2018). Demonstrative simulations of L-PEACH: a computer-based model to understand how peach trees grow. Acta Hortic. 1228, 13-20
DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2018.1228.2
https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2018.1228.2
computer simulations, modeling, Prunus persica, source-sink relationships, tree growth
English

Acta Horticulturae