ACCELERATION OF BEAN LEAF ABSCISSION BY 2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID APPLIED IN DIMETHYLSULFOXIDE

Abstract
Rapid abscission of leaves from 18- to 22-day-old bean plants was induced by 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid applied in dimethylsulfoxide. The time between treatment and the onset of abscission was 12 hours; 50% defoliation was achieved in less than 120 hours. The effectiveness of the auxin was increased fourfold by application in dimethylsulfoxide when compared with application in water at identical rates.