The document discusses factors that affect the phyllochron, or the time interval between the emergence of successive leaves, in rice plants. It reports on studies that found older seedlings and closer spacing resulted in longer phyllochron durations, negatively impacting tiller production and yield. Specifically, older seedlings experienced more root damage during transplanting, causing stress and slower growth rates, while closer spacing increased competition between plants for resources. Wider spacing and younger seedlings promoted higher tiller numbers and potential yields.