What is Apical Dominance

Is the inhibition of lateral bud development by the terminal bud. If the terminal bud is removed one or more lateral buds develop into side branches. Apical dominance refers to the phenomenon in plants where the growth of the main, central stem (the apical meristem / terminal bud) inhibits the growth of lateral buds or side shoots. This growth inhibition occurs due to the presence of a hormone called auxin, which is produced by the apical meristem at the tip of the main stem. When the apical meristem/terminal bud is removed or damaged (e.g., through pruning), the supply of auxins is reduced. As a result, the inhibition on the lateral buds is lifted, and they begin to grow, leading to the development of side branches.