What practical applications are derived from the principal
functions of plant hormones? Discuss any one such
application
One practical application derived from the principal functions of plant hormones is in agriculture, specifically in the production of plant-based crops.
One hormone that has significant applications in agriculture is cytokinin. Cytokinins are responsible for cell division and differentiation, promoting the growth of lateral buds, and delaying leaf senescence. These functions of cytokinins can be utilized to improve crop yield and quality.
One application is the use of cytokinins in plant tissue culture. Tissue culture is a technique of growing plant cells in a controlled environment to produce new plantlets. Cytokinins are added to the media to promote cell division and differentiation, allowing the growth of new shoots and roots from the cultured cells. This technique is widely used for the mass production of disease-free and genetically identical plants, as well as the propagation of valuable plants that are difficult to reproduce by traditional methods like seeds or cuttings.
Additionally, cytokinins can be applied as a foliar spray or root drench to enhance crop growth and yield. By applying cytokinins at specific growth stages, the lateral bud development can be stimulated, leading to increased branching and more flowers, fruits, or seeds. This can result in higher crop yields and improved productivity.
Furthermore, cytokinins can be used to delay leaf senescence, which is the natural aging and death of leaves. By applying cytokinins, the leaves can remain green and photosynthetic for a longer duration, effectively extending the growing period of the crop. This can be particularly beneficial in regions with short growing seasons or for crops that require a longer period to reach maturity.
In conclusion, the application of cytokinins derived from the principal functions of plant hormones has significant implications in agriculture. Its use in tissue culture and as a foliar spray/root drench can enhance crop growth, yield, and quality. Additionally, it can also delay leaf senescence, enabling crops to grow for a longer duration. These applications can contribute to increased productivity and food security.
One practical application derived from the principal functions of plant hormones is crop improvement. Plant hormones play a crucial role in regulating many aspects of plant growth and development, and by understanding and manipulating these hormones, scientists and farmers can enhance crop productivity and quality.
One specific application related to crop improvement is the use of plant hormones to induce fruit ripening. Ethylene, a plant hormone, is responsible for the ripening process in many fruits. By controlling ethylene levels, farmers can regulate the timing and uniformity of fruit ripening, allowing for better harvest management and extended shelf life.
For example, in the commercial production of bananas, the use of ethylene is common to induce ripening. Bananas are often harvested while they are still green because they have a longer shelf life during transportation. Once the bananas reach their destination, they are exposed to ethylene gas, which triggers the production of endogenous ethylene and stimulates the ripening process. This practice ensures that the bananas are ready to be consumed by the time they reach the market.
Similarly, other fruits such as tomatoes, apples, and avocados can be treated with ethylene or ethylene-releasing compounds to accelerate the ripening process and achieve consistent and predictable ripening across a batch of fruit.
By utilizing plant hormones like ethylene to control fruit ripening, farmers and distributors can manage the time and quality of harvest, reduce post-harvest losses, and provide consumers with fruits that are ripe and ready to eat. This application demonstrates how understanding and manipulating plant hormones can significantly impact crop production and supply chain management in the agriculture industry.