Through the actions of some helpful microorganisms they contain, biofertilizers can affect the production of plant growth hormones. These bacteria have the ability to either directly make plant growth hormones or indirectly encourage the host plant to produce hormones. Plant growth hormones, sometimes referred to as phytohormones, are essential for controlling a variety of physiological activities in plants, including as growth, development, and stress responses. The following describes how biofertilizers affect the synthesis of plant growth hormones:
Production of auxins: Some biofertilizers, notably bacteria that promote plant development, have the ability to produce and release auxins like indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Auxins play a role in apical dominance, root growth, and cell elongation. These auxin-producing bacteria can improve root development and branching when administered to plants.
Production of cytokinins: Some biofertilizers include microbes that create cytokinins, including zeatin. Cell division and differentiation depend on cytokinins. Enhanced nutrient transfer, postponed senescence, and increased shoot growth are all effects of higher cytokinin levels in plants.
Production of gibberellins: Some biofertilizers could include bacteria that can produce gibberellins. Gibberellins play a role in flowering, seed germination, and stem lengthening. The use of such biofertilizers can encourage the growth of taller plants and longer stems.
Modulation of ethylene: Ethylene is another crucial plant growth hormone, and several biofertilizers have the ability to control its production or activity. Several processes, including fruit ripening, leaf abscission, and stress reactions are influenced by ethylene. In order to promote delayed senescence and increase the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, biofertilizers may assist lower ethylene levels.
