Question

Mention few roles of auxins in plant growth.

Answer 1

Auxins:

Auxin is a plant growth regulator that is produced at the root and shoot tips that control various physiological functions in plants.

Functions of auxin:

1. Cell elongation in stems and roots.
2. Apical dominance, IAA in apical bud suppresses the growth of lateral buds.
3. Induces parthenocarpy i.e. development of fruit without fertilization e.g. in tomatoes.
4. Prevents the premature fall of leaves, flowers, and fruits.
5. Useful in stem cuttings and grafting where it initiates rooting.
6. Promotes flowering e.g. in pineapple.
7. 2,4-D is widely used as a herbicide to kill undesirable weeds of dicot plants without affecting monocot plants.
8. Helps in cell division and xylem differentiation.