1naphthylacetic

1-naphthylacetic acid, also known as alpha-naphthylacetic acid or NAA, is a synthetic plant hormone in the auxin family. It is a white crystalline solid that is soluble in organic solvents but sparingly soluble in water. NAA is widely used in agriculture and horticulture as a plant growth regulator. Its primary function is to mimic the effects of natural auxins produced by plants, influencing a variety of developmental processes.

One of the most common applications of NAA is in promoting root formation in cuttings. When applied to the base of a stem cutting, it stimulates the development of adventitious roots, making propagation easier. It is also used to prevent premature fruit drop in some crops, such as apples and pears, by maintaining the connection between the fruit and the stem. Additionally, NAA can be employed to thin fruit blossoms, leading to larger and higher quality fruit on the remaining blossoms. In some instances, it has been used to induce flowering and to control the growth of undesirable shoots. The efficacy and application rates of NAA vary depending on the plant species, the desired effect, and environmental conditions.