Penicillin inhibition of release of lateral buds of gram (Cicer arietinum) seedlings from apical dominance

Abstract

The effect of penicillin on apical dominance was investigated in gram (Cicer arietinum L.) seedlings. Application of penicillin to the decapitated stump was found to reestablish apical dominance in preventing the growth of lateral buds. Penicillin was seen to mimic auxin action in this system. Penicillin inhibition of lateral bud growth was relieved by the simultaneous application of antiauxins like 2,3,5-triiodobenzoic acid and maleic hydrazide. An increase in auxin-synthesizing capacity of the treated tissue has been suggested as the possible mode of action of penicillin in the regulation of lateral bud growth.