Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is one key feature of apical dominance in plants?

1. A. Promotion of the growth of lateral buds

2. B. Inhibition of the growth of lateral buds

3. C. Increased growth rate of roots

4. D. Enhanced nutrient absorption

The correct answer is: B. Inhibition of the growth of lateral buds

Apical dominance is a phenomenon in plants where the main central stem grows more robustly than the side stems, and this is primarily due to the presence of the apical bud at the tip of the plant. The key feature of apical dominance is that it inhibits the growth of lateral buds. This inhibition occurs because the apical bud produces hormones, particularly auxins, that suppress the development of lateral buds. By doing so, the plant directs its energy toward vertical growth and the establishment of the main stem, which can help the plant access more sunlight and better compete for resources. In contrast, the promotion of lateral bud growth, an increased growth rate of roots, and enhanced nutrient absorption do not directly pertain to the concept of apical dominance. Instead, these aspects would typically occur in the absence of apical dominance or under different growth regulators or conditions within the plant. Thus, understanding apical dominance is critical for horticulture and landscape management, as it influences how plants are pruned and shaped to encourage desired growth patterns.