Question

Give at least four roles of gibberellins on plant growth.

Answer 1

Gibberellin or Gibberellic Acid (GA) was initially isolated from a fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. In plants, it is produced in embryos, roots, and young leaves and it enhances growth. The role of gibberellins on plant growth is as follows:

(1) Helps in elongation of stems in dwarf plants. This ability to cause an increase in length of axis is used to increase the length of grapes stalks

(2) Breaks dormancy of seeds and buds.

(3) Promotes bolting (internode elongation) in beetroot, cabbages and many other plants.

(4) Delays senescence and thus fruits can be left on the plant longer so as to extend the market period.