Gibberellin Biosynthesis Inhibition and Crop Physiology
Chlormequat Chloride acts as a competitive inhibitor of copalyl pyrophosphate synthase, an early enzyme in plant gibberellin biosynthesis.
By suppressing internal gibberellin production, it reduces cell elongation and internodal length without decreasing total leaf count, creating a compact, sturdy canopy.
This redirection of carbohydrates enhances flower bud formation, boll retention in cotton, and tuber bulking in potatoes.
- Cotton: Controls excessive vegetative rank growth in fertile, irrigated soils, promoting square formation and boll retention.
- Potato: Stimulates early stolon tuberization and uniform tuber enlargement.
- Soybean & pulses: Curtails excessive vegetative foliage, preventing crop lodging during heavy monsoon rains.
- Grapes: Regulates shoot growth, improves cluster aeration, and promotes uniform berry set.
Application Timing and Dosage Standards
Timing is critical; applying too early can stunt seedling development, while applying too late provides minimal canopy control.
Chlormequat Chloride is applied via foliar spray during active vegetative growth when excessive vegetative vigor is observed.
- Cotton timing: Apply at 60 to 75 days after sowing during peak square and early boll formation when plants show rank vegetative vigor.
- Potato timing: Apply 40 to 50 days after planting during active stolon formation and tuber bulking.
- Sprayer calibration: Use hollow cone nozzles to deliver uniform misting across upper canopy shoots.
- Avoid over-application: Strictly adhere to label concentrations to avoid temporary leaf chlorosis.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is Chlormequat Chloride 50% SL used for in cotton farming?
It is applied to curb excessive vegetative rank growth, reduce internodal length, and divert plant energy into boll development and retention.
How does Chlormequat Chloride work in plants?
It inhibits internal gibberellin biosynthesis, preventing excessive cell elongation and producing a sturdy, compact crop canopy.
Does Chlormequat Chloride prevent crop lodging?
Yes, by shortening internodes and thickening stem walls, it significantly increases mechanical strength and prevents crop lodging.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More General Agriculture & Tools guides
Ask Sakhi AI in your language, check live mandi prices or plan a loan with KisanPe tools.