Plant Hormones

Plant hormones are natural chemicals that regulate growth, development, and responses to the environment. They act as signaling molecules, guiding processes such as seed germination, root and shoot growth, flowering, fruiting, and responses to stress. Examples include auxins, which promote cell elongation; gibberellins, which influence seed germination and stem growth; cytokinins, which stimulate cell division; ethylene, involved in fruit ripening; and abscisic acid, which helps plants conserve water during stress. These hormones work together in complex networks to ensure plants grow properly and adapt to changing conditions.