Physiological Mechanisms Affecting the Dormancy of Switchgrass, (\u3ci\u3ePanicum virgatum\u3c/i\u3e, L.)

A growth regulator is an organic compound other than a nutrient which is capable of modifying growth. These compounds may either stimulate, inhibit or otherwise alter growth. Indoleacetic acid (IAA) is included in this category as a naturally occurring plant auxin. Auxin levels in plant tissue plays a crucial role in determining the nature of plant growth. Bud formation and development depends on auxin content and its relation to other plant constituents. The hypothesis that the bud activity of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum, L.) rhizomes is controlled by IAA in the rhizomes, and that this is in turn controlled by IAA oxidase (specifically peroxidase and riboflavin), and that carotene acts as an inhibitor of riboflavin activity, is the basis of this research. Advisor: Gordon E. Van Riper