Question

Maleic hydrazide is used to

• A. Enhance ripening
• B. Control sprouting
• C. Enhance maturity
• D. Value addition

Hint:

Associate specific growth regulators with their primary functions. Ethylene/Ethephon for ripening, Auxins (IBA, NAA) for rooting, Gibberellins (GA3) for breaking dormancy and fruit size, and Maleic Hydrazide (MH) for sprout inhibition.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Core Idea:
The prompt seeks the primary agricultural application of Maleic hydrazide (MH), focusing on its post-harvest role.

Step 2: Elaboration:
Maleic hydrazide is a plant growth regulator that inhibits cell division. Applied to crops like potatoes and onions before harvest, it moves to storage organs (tubers/bulbs). In storage, it prevents sprouting by stopping cell division in dormant buds. Sprouting diminishes quality and storage duration. MH does not affect ripening or maturity. While managing sprouting adds value, its key physiological action is sprout control.

Step 3: Conclusion:
Maleic hydrazide controls sprouting, especially in potatoes and onions.