What is the role of cytokinin in the context of cotton defoliation?

Cytokinins are a class of plant hormones that play a significant role in various physiological processes, including cytokinin's involvement in cotton defoliation, where they promote ethylene synthesis. Ethylene is another plant hormone that is instrumental in the process of leaf abscission, or defoliation. By promoting ethylene synthesis, cytokinins can accelerate the natural aging of leaves, leading to their eventual detachment from the plant.

In the context of cotton production, understanding the interplay between cytokinins and ethylene is crucial. When a cotton plant is treated with cytokinins, the increased levels of ethylene lead to a more effective defoliation process at the time of harvest, which is essential for improving fiber quality and yield. Therefore, their role in stimulating ethylene production directly supports timing and efficiency during the harvesting phase, making it a vital aspect of cotton management practices.