Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is Indole-3-butyric Acid (IBA) primarily used for in the nursery trade?

1. Rooting hormone

2. Insect control

3. Surfactant

4. Foliage preservative

The correct answer is: Rooting hormone

Indole-3-butyric Acid (IBA) is primarily recognized as a rooting hormone in the nursery trade. This synthetic plant hormone is widely utilized to encourage root development in plant cuttings, making it an invaluable tool for propagating many types of plants. By applying IBA to the cut surface of a cutting, it stimulates the formation of roots, which enhances the chances of successful establishment and growth in a new environment. The use of IBA is particularly important in the propagation of woody plants, herbs, and many other species that may be difficult to root otherwise. This hormone aids in overcoming natural barriers to rooting, thus promoting quicker and more vigorous root development, facilitating healthier plants that can be easily transplanted. The other options, such as insect control, surfactants, and foliage preservatives, do not capture the integral role IBA plays in the context of plant propagation. While some may play important roles in different aspects of nursery management, they are not relevant to the primary function of IBA within the nursery trade as a rooting hormone.