Cellular dynamics in the maize leaf growth zone during recovery from chilling depends on the leaf developmental stage.

A novel non-steady-state kinematic analysis shows differences in cell division and expansion determining a better recovery from a 3-day cold spell in emerged compared to non-emerged maize leaves. Zea mays is highly sensitive to chilling which frequently occurs during its seedling stage. Although the direct effect of chilling is well studied, the mechanisms determining the subsequent recovery are still unknown.

A meta-analysis reveals differential sensitivity of cold stress responses in the maize leaf.

Maize (Zea mays), a cold-sensitive crop, requires cold tolerance for extending the length of the growing season in temperate climates. However, response curves to different cold temperatures and exposure durations are lacking. We used a meta-analysis approach using data from literature to investigate the effect of cold stress in the maize leaf.