Influence of Gibberellic Acid on Fruit Crops: A Review

Abstract

Gibberellic acid is a tetracyclic di-terpenoid molecule that acts as a plant hormone by promoting the growth and development of plants. Gibberellins, one of the longest-known groups of plant hormones, control several developmental and signaling processes, such as stem lengthening, germination, dormancy, flowering and floral development, as well as the senescence of leaves and fruits. Gibberellins can alter physiological and developmental processes, including plant vegetative growth, sex expression, yield, and yield components in several crops, when applied foliar. Gibberellin, therefore has significant economic and industrial significance. Their exogenous use aids in enhancing the several commercially significant and marketable traits of flowering plants and has several benefits, like being environmentally friendly and taking less time to treat the plant. Growth regulators like GA3 have finally impacted on flowering crops' physiological processes, which in turn has affected growth and flower production. To put things in perspective, current scientific advancements will significantly affect fruit productivity and quality. In this review, we have discussed the impact of gibberellins on different aspects of crop production with special emphasis on fruit crops. To make the use of these regulators ecologically and toxicologically safe for both plants and consumers, the proper concentration for exogenous applications in fruit crops should also be examined properly.