Which time period is critical for crops to be sensitive to heat stress?

The sensitivity of crops to heat stress is particularly critical during the pollination and seed development stage. This period is essential for establishing the yield potential of the crop, as it is when the reproductive processes occur, including pollination, fertilization, and the subsequent development of seeds. Extreme heat during this phase can lead to reduced pollen viability, impaired fertilization, and consequently poor seed set and lower yields.

Heat stress during pollination can result in incomplete pollination or even total failure, which has direct implications for yield. Additionally, high temperatures during seed development can adversely affect seed size and quality, further influencing the overall productivity of the crop. Understanding this critical time frame allows for improved management practices to mitigate the effects of heat stress, such as irrigation, mulching, or choosing drought-resistant crop varieties, ultimately helping to secure better harvests under challenging conditions.