Evolution of flowering, ripening and seed set in buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench): quantitative analysis

A drastic reduction of competition between inflorescences and kernels (through partial removal of inflorescences) has only a negligible effect on final grain yield per plant, indicating a strong compensation by the remaining kernels. Thus, the limitation is associated to a strong sink restriction appearing only in some flowers and probably linked to internal flower structure and fertilization.