IAA-induced bending was similar to that observed in BPP stems
(Fig. 6b) and always occurred in the direction opposite to IAA
application. IAA-induced bending was moderate to strong in
most peduncles, while very strong bending was observed in
about 3% of the treated stems. In 70% of the treated peduncles,
the bending was temporary, and the peduncle eventually
straightened back to normal after several days. This straightening
could be inhibited by continuous IAA application. The bud
developmental stage at the time of IAA application did not
influence the induction of bending, but it did influence the
straightening following IAA application: about 80% of peduncles
treated at stage 1 straightened seven days after IAA application,
as opposed to only 40% of peduncles with more developed buds
at the time of application. Application of NAA had a stronger
qualitative (more pronounced bending) and quantitative effect
than IAA and induced bending in 95% of treated peduncles from