Gibberellin, << `jihb` uh REHL ihn, >> is any of a particular group of hormones that regulate growth. Gibberellins occur in plants, fungi, and bacteria. In plants, gibberellins regulate stem growth, seed germination, and flowering. Scientists have discovered more than 125 types of gibberellin. The best known is gibberellic acid (GA). Gibberellic acid was the first gibberellin identified. Japanese scientists isolated it in the 1930’s.
When GA is sprayed onto a plant, the stem may grow faster and taller than normal, a process called bolting. GA may also promote sprouting, flowering, and fruiting.
GA has many commercial uses. For example, it can cause apples, cucumbers, and eggplants to develop fruits without fertilization. The fruits often are seedless.
