Which statement about indolebutyric acid is true in propagation?

• A. It is primarily used to stunt growth
• B. It is a fungicide
• C. It is the chemical most often used for rooting cuttings
• D. It is a natural stimulant found in alfalfa

Answer: (C)

Rooting hormones such as indolebutyric acid (IBA) are used to stimulate root formation on cuttings. In propagation, IBA is a synthetic auxin that enhances adventitious root initiation and is the chemical most commonly used to promote rooting across many species because it provides reliable, quicker rooting. It is not a fungicide, and it does not stunt growth when used properly; its purpose is to encourage root development, not suppress growth. It is also not a natural stimulant found in alfalfa—the natural auxin is indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)—while IBA is produced synthetically for consistent use in rooting.