Gibberellin, particularly Gibberellic Acid (GA3), is a naturally occurring plant hormone belonging to the gibberellin family.
It regulates various aspects of plant growth including stem elongation, seed germination, flowering, and fruit development.
GA3 is widely used in agriculture and horticulture to enhance crop productivity and quality.
It appears as a white crystalline powder, soluble in water and organic solvents.
Stem Elongation: Promotes taller plants with increased internode length.
Seed Germination: Breaks seed dormancy and improves germination rates.
Fruit Development: Increases fruit size and weight in grapes, apples, and citrus.
Malting Industry: Used in barley malting to improve enzyme activity.
Induces flowering in some plants and delays senescence.
Enhances growth of tree seedlings and improves timber yield.
Natural Hormone: Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Versatile: Suitable for various crops and plant species.
Improves Crop Quality: Enhances fruit size, uniformity, and shelf life.
Property | Value |
---|---|
Molecular Formula | C₁₉H₂₂O₆ |
Molecular Weight | 346.37 g/mol |
Appearance | White crystalline powder |
Purity (%) | ≥90.0 (technical grade) |
Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone |
Storage | Store in a cool, dry, and dark place |
Shelf Life | 24 months |
Q1: How is GA3 applied?
A1: Commonly by foliar spray, seed soaking, or soil drenching depending on crop needs.
Q2: Is GA3 safe for food crops?
A2: Yes, it is widely used and approved with residue limits regulated.
Q3: Can GA3 be combined with other PGRs?
A3: Yes, often combined with cytokinins or auxins for balanced growth.
Q4: How soon does GA3 affect plants?
A4: Effects can be observed within days to weeks after application.
Q5: Does GA3 affect all plants the same way?
A5: Response varies by species and dosage; optimal rates must be determined experimentally.