The most reliable way to stimulate branching in a plant is to
A) apply auxin to the roots.
B) remove the terminal bud.
C) give short-day light treatments.
D) add extra fertilizer.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Removing the terminal bud is the most reliable way to stimulate branching in a plant because it removes the apical dominance that inhibits lateral bud growth. This allows the plant to direct more energy towards the growth of lateral branches. Applying auxin to the roots or giving short-day light treatments may promote branching in some species but may not be as reliable as removing the terminal bud. Adding extra fertilizer may actually promote vegetative growth rather than branching.

The Most Reliable Way to Stimulate Branching in a Plant