Give an example of a plant hormone that promotes growth.

One example of a plant hormone that promotes growth is gibberellin. Gibberellins are a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in various aspects of plant growth and development. They are involved in cell elongation, germination of seeds, flowering, and other processes. Gibberellins are produced in the stems, roots, and young leaves of plants.

Here are some specific ways in which gibberellins promote growth:

1. Stem Elongation: Gibberellins promote cell elongation in stems, leading to increased height and internodal spacing. This is important for the overall growth and development of the plant.

2. Seed Germination: Gibberellins break seed dormancy and promote germination. They stimulate the production of enzymes, such as amylase, which hydrolyze stored starch in seeds into sugars that fuel germination and early seedling growth.

3. Flowering: Gibberellins influence the flowering process, including the development of floral organs. They can induce flowering in some plants and affect the sex expression of flowers.

4. Fruit Development: Gibberellins play a role in fruit development, affecting the size and shape of fruits. They can stimulate cell division and elongation in the fruit, influencing its final characteristics.

It’s important to note that plant growth is a complex process influenced by the interactions of multiple hormones, including gibberellins, auxins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, and ethylene. Each hormone has specific functions, and their coordinated actions regulate various aspects of plant growth and development.