Chlormequat
chemical compound
Chlormequat is an organic compound with the formula ClCH2CH2N(CH3)+3 that is used as a plant growth regulator. It is typically sold as the chloride salt, chlormequat chloride (C5H13Cl2N), a colorless hygroscopic crystalline substance that is soluble in water and ethanol. It is an alkylating agent and a quaternary ammonium salt. Chlormequat is one of the onium-type growth regulators.
Plant interactions
Chlormequat was discovered in the 1950s, and was the first known plant growth regulator. It can cause stem thickening, reduced stem height, additional root development, plant dwarfing, and increase chlorophyll concentration.
Chlormequat is an inhibitor of gibberellin biosynthesis, thereby causing reduced cell elongation and thicker sturdier stalks that facilitate harvesting of cereal crops. It can also be used as an adjuvant for herbicides by retarding their oxidative disposal by plants. This is due to cytochrome P450-inhibition.
Regulation and toxicity
In the United States, chlormequat is classified as a low risk plant growth regulator and it is registered for use on ornamental plants grown in greenhouses, nurseries, and shadehouses.
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