Summary:

The response of three raspberry cultivars (‘Beskid', ‘Laszka', ‘Latham') to water deficiency was examined by evaluating selected physiological parameters. Plants were subjected to two different water regimes: optimal irrigation (control), and reduced irrigation. Leaf water potential in all cultivars was decreased as a result of limited water availability. Genotypes differed in their response to water deficiency. Under water shortage conditions, the rate of CO2 assimilation was the highest in ‘Latham' and ‘Laszka'. On the other hand, the severe inhibition of photosynthesis was observed in ‘Beskid'. Taking all data into consideration it was concluded that cultivar ‘Latham' and ‘Laszka' appeared to be more drought resistant which was reflected by enhanced physiological parameters.