The term "active substances" refers to organic compounds that –
often in very small quantities –
influence plant development. These effects can be highly specific (depending on species and
variety) and are not described in detail here. This should be addressed within the respective
specialized discipline.
Groups of active substances and their exemplary functions:
- Vitamins: building blocks of enzymes
- Antibiotics: active substances that
are harmless to the producing organism (primarily secreted
by fungi and bacteria)
- Phytoalexins: substances produced
by plants in response to pest infestation (e.g., pisatin in
peas)
- Growth regulators:
- Growth promoters (e.g., rooting aids)
- Growth inhibitors (e.g., anti-lodging
agents such as CCC, and herbicides)
