Computational experiments of light distribution and photosynthesis in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) canopy

Light distribution in cucumber canopy affects leaf photosynthesis directly. Scientific computing of light distribution and accurate modeling of canopy photosynthesis is beneficial to improve understanding of the canopy structure and provide a quantitative decision basis for optimal planting spacing design. In this paper, three 3D cucumber canopy models were reconstructed in different planting spacing using measured data. A canopy light distribution calculation model and photosynthesis model were used to calculate light interception and photosynthetic production. Experimental results demonstrated that based on the 3D cucumber canopy models and combining light distribution model, the light distribution in different planting spacing canopy can be simulated accurately. Leaf photosynthesis calculation based on the result of light distribution modeling provides an efficient approach to investigate the physiology of cucumber, and a favorable support for the decisions for optimal planting spacing design.