determinatekasvu

Determinate growth is a type of plant growth habit in which the plant grows to a predetermined size or shape and then stops growing. This is in contrast to indeterminate growth, where the plant continues to grow and produce new flowers and fruit throughout its lifespan.

In determinate plants, the shoot tips are typically self-pruning, meaning they produce less ethylene gas, a plant hormone that promotes cell elongation and cell division. This results in the plant shoot growing to a predetermined length and then terminating growth. Determinate plants often produce multiple stems that grow upward from the crown of the plant, creating a bushy or compact growth habit.

Examples of determinate plants include many types of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. These plants are often preferred for commercial production because they are easier to manage and require less support. Determinate plants typically produce a single, heavy flower and subsequent fruit all at once, which can lead to a sudden burst of growth and fruit production.

In contrast, indeterminate plants continue to produce new flowers and fruit throughout the growing season, often requiring more support and pruning to promote healthy growth. Determinate growth is often seen as an advantage in certain types of plant production, such as high-density fruiting crops, where quick growth and a compact habit can lead to higher yields and easier harvesting.

Research has shown that determinate growth is often associated with genetic changes in the plant's hormone regulation system, particularly the reduction in sensitivity to auxin, a hormone that promotes cell elongation and cell division. This can be a result of evolutionary pressures, such as adaptation to dense or competitive growth environments.