Indole-3-butyric acid NEW

Primary Applications

 1. Rooting Agent for Plant Cuttings (Propagation)

This is the most significant and common use of IBA.

How it works: IBA is applied to the cut end of a stem or leaf cutting. It mimics natural auxins, triggering cell elongation and division, which leads to the formation of root primordia (the beginnings of roots).

Benefits:

Increased Rooting Percentage: A higher success rate of cuttings developing roots.

 Faster Root Initiation:Roots form more quickly than they would without treatment.

Denser Root Systems:Promotes the growth of more numerous and sometimes stronger roots, giving the new plant a better start.

Forms Used:

  Liquid Solutions:Cuttings are dipped into a diluted liquid solution for a set time.

Powder Formulations: The cut end is moistened and then dipped into a powder containing IBA and a talc carrier. This is the most common form for home gardeners (e.g., products like "Rootone").

Gels: A newer, user-friendly formulation that sticks to the cutting better than powder.

2. Commercial Nursery and Horticulture

IBA is indispensable in the commercial production of many plants:

Fruit Trees:Apple, pear, cherry, and citrus rootstocks are often propagated using IBA-treated cuttings.Ornamental Shrubs and Trees: Roses, rhododendrons, azaleas, poinsettias, and many woody ornamentals.

Houseplants:Difficult-to-root houseplants like various Ficus species benefit greatly from IBA treatment.

3. Tissue Culture

In plant biotechnology and micropropagation, IBA is a key component of the growth medium.

Root Induction: After shoots have been multiplied in culture, they are transferred to a rooting medium containing IBA to stimulate the development of roots before being transplanted to soil.

4. Other Agricultural Uses

While rooting is its primary function, IBA has a few other specialized applications:

Enhancing Fruit Set: In some cases, it can be used to improve fruit formation and reduce pre-harvest fruit drop, though other compounds like NAA are more common for this purpose.

Promoting Tuber Growth:It can be used to influence the size and yield of certain tubers like sweet potatoes.