Phytohormones or plant hormones are chemical substances that regulate various aspects of plant growth and development. They are produced in one region and carried to the site of action through diffusion, xylem vessels, or phloem tissues. They are required in very small concentration to bring their action.
Phytohormones can either induce or inhibit the development of the plant.
Two examples of phytohormones:
Auxin: A growth-promoting hormone that promotes cell division, cell differentiation, and apical dominance.
Ethylene: A growth-inhibiting plant hormone that prevents lateral bud growth, promotes senescence, abscission, ripening of fruits and vegetables, etc.