Abstract

Although the effect of hormones on elongation of plants is well recognized (Brian et al, 1954, Gray, 1957; Marth et al 1956; Yabuta et al 1941) little information is available concerning its effect on the chemical composition of plants (Stove and Yamaki, 1957). It has been shown by many investigators (Schmuck, 1924; Kovalenko, 1935; Sastry, 1953) that within certain limits quality in the flue-cured type is directly proportional to sugars and inversely to nitrogenous constituents. Taking sugar and nitrogen figures, it appears that the Indian leaves generally contain less total sugars and more nitrogen than what is desirable. Stuart (1938) and Mitchell and Stuart (1938-39) while using IAA found an accumulation of carbohydrates in bean cuttings. Similarly Wost (1949), Grenlach and Singh (1949), and Mc-Illarth (1950) using 2, 4-D, NAA and Maleic-hydrazide respectively noted an increase in the carbohydrate content of hormone treated plants. Dastur and Bhatt (1956) found a greater accumulation of cane-sugar and starch in the leaves of the hormone treated cotton plant. They did not find any effect of hormone on the nitrogen content of stems and leaves, but the reproductive parts showed consistently higher nitrogen content than control. Yabuta et al (1943) and Parups (1959) reported a decreased nicotine content in hormone treated tobacco plants. Keeping the above facts in view, it was considered desirable to investigate fully the effect of some hormones on the chemical constituents and subsequently on the quality of tobacco.

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