Sure, here’s an article on growth regulator used in wheat crop at the time of the heading stage:
Growth regulator is an important input in the modern cropping system that plays a significant role in enhancing the productivity of crops. It is a chemical compound that helps in controlling the growth and development of plants, particularly during critical stages such as heading, flowering, and fruiting. One such key stage in the growth cycle of wheat is the heading stage or grain filling that determines the yield and quality of the final product.
The heading stage of wheat is a critical phase that requires careful management to ensure optimal yield. At this stage, the plant undergoes a transformation that involves the transfer of carbohydrates from the leaves to the developing grain, which is essential for wheat to produce maximum yield. Inadequate regulation of this process can result in reduced yield and quality, which can have a significant impact on the farmer’s income. Hence, the use of growth regulators, particularly plant growth regulators, has become essential for the wheat crop at the time of heading stage.
One of the popular growth regulators used in the wheat crop at the time of heading stage is ethephon, a plant growth regulator commonly known as Ethrel. Ethrel is widely used in wheat production because of its ability to improve grain yield and quality. Ethrel works by releasing ethylene gas in the plant, which leads to an increase in the number of flowers and an increase in the carbohydrates available for grain filling.
Ethrel application during the heading stage helps to promote the early ripening of the wheat crop, resulting in higher yields, improved quality, and reduced harvesting time. Ethrel also improves the drought resistance of wheat by reducing the transpiration rate, which means less water loss from the plant. However, it is important to note that the overuse of Ethrel can lead to plant lodging, which is when the plant falls over due to inadequate stem strength, resulting in reduced yields and quality.
In conclusion, the use of growth regulators, particularly Ethrel, has become essential for wheat crops at the time of the heading stage. Ethrel application helps to promote the early ripening of the crop, produce higher yields, and improve the quality of the final product. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and application method to prevent lodging and achieve optimal results.