What is it?
Chlormequat is a plant growth regulator commonly used in agriculture to inhibit the growth of plants, making them shorter and sturdier. Its active ingredient is chlormequat chloride. This substance works by blocking the production of gibberellins, which are plant hormones that promote cell elongation and growth. As a result, plants treated with chlormequat are less likely to grow too tall and become leggy, which can make them vulnerable to damage from wind and heavy rains.
Chlormequat is particularly useful in the cultivation of cereals like wheat and barley, as well as in ornamental plants and fruit trees, where compact growth is often desirable. By controlling the height and promoting a thicker stem, chlormequat can help increase the yield and quality of crops. Additionally, it can enhance the ability of plants to resist lodging (falling over), which is important for mechanical harvesting.
It's important to use chlormequat according to agricultural guidelines and regulations, as its misuse can have negative environmental and health impacts.