Influence of Phytohormones on Growth and Dry Matter Production in <I>Madhuca latifolia</I>

Abstract

Madhuca latifolia (Mahua), is an important tree species in the tribal belts of India. It is characterised by slow growth. Studies were therefore Conducted to stimulate height and dry matter production using various phytohormones in different concentrations. It was observed Gibberellic acid (GA), Indole butyric acid (IBA) and Indole acetic acid (IAA) all promoted both height and dry matter production when applied as spray treatmant. The effect was most pronounced when the hormones were applied in the month of February, i.e. at the beginning of the growing season. Though all the phytohormones promoted dry matter production, different hormones caused differential response. Thus, GA 1000 ppm increased the dry matter production by over 64 per cent as compared to control. IBA showed direct concentration response with regard to dry matter production the increase being over 25 per cent at 1000 ppm. IAA at all concentration though bought about increased dry matter production, caused inverse concentration response. Thus, IAA 200 ppm increased the dry matter production by only 2 per cent. Differential concentration response by application of dilferent hormones in enhancing the dry matter production is discussed. It is concluded that various phytohormones, particularly GA, can effectively be used to enhance the growth in this slow growing plant.