Impact of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR’s) in Rainfed Agriculture

Author: Mohammed Azharuddin B.R. and K. Murali

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Abstract

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) have emerged as a crucial tool in rainfed agriculture to combat the various stresses that crops face in such environments. Rainfed agriculture relies solely on natural rainfall, which can be unpredictable and unevenly distributed, leading to challenges like water stress, nutrient stress, heat stress, weed stress, and climate change stress. PGRs aid plants in overcoming these stresses by enhancing root growth, nutrient uptake, defense mechanisms, cell elongation, photosynthesis, and soil stabilization. They also play a role in inhibiting weed growth while promoting overall plant growth. The endogenous biosynthesis of PGRs and their exogenous application as foliar agents offer potential solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of biotic and abiotic stresses in rainfed agriculture. By improving crop yield and quality, PGRs contribute significantly to sustainable agriculture practices in rainfed regions, supporting food security and livelihoods for millions of small-scale farmers worldwide. Utilisation of plant growth regulators in rainfed agriculture helps to enhance plant growth and productivity while increasing resilience to biotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. These regulators also contribute to sustainability by reducing the reliance on excessive water and fertilizers. However, the careful application of plant growth regulators is crucial, taking into account factors such as crop type, growth stage, and environmental conditions. By judiciously using these regulators, significant benefits can be realized in improving the livelihoods of rainfed farming communities.

Keywords

Plant growth regulators, Rainfed agriculture, Abiotic stress, Sustainability

Conclusion

The use of plant growth regulators in rainfed agriculture has shown promising results in improving growth and productivity. These regulators help plants to overcome biotic stresses like drought, salinity and extreme temperatures hereby increasing their resilience and productivity. The use of these regulators also reduces the need for excessive water and fertilizers, making rainfed agriculture more sustainable. However, it is important to note that the application of plant growth regulators should be done carefully, considering crop type, growth stage and environmental conditions. The judicious use of plant growth regulators can play a vital role in livelihoods of rainfed farming communities.

References

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How to cite this article

Mohammed Azharuddin B.R. and K. Murali (2024). Impact of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR’s) in Rainfed Agriculture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(2): 09-14.