Question

Which parts of the plant produce gibberellin? State two functions of this hormone and mention why it was named gibberellin?

Answer 1

Gibberellin or Gibberellic Acid (GA) was initially isolated from a fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. Hence, it was named Gibberellin based on the name of the fungus, it was isolated from.

In plants, it is produced in embryos, roots, and young leaves and it enhances growth.

Functions of Gibberellin:

(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.