Removal of shoot tips (decapitation) means loss of apical dominance and it is widely applied in -

Options

A. Tea plantation
B. Hedge-making
C. Both
D. Bolting

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Apical Dominance**: Apical dominance is a phenomenon where the growth of the main (apical) shoot inhibits the growth of lateral (auxiliary) buds. This is primarily regulated by the hormone auxin, which is produced at the shoot tip.

2. **Definition of Decapitation**: Decapitation refers to the removal of the shoot tip, which leads to the loss of apical dominance. When the shoot tip is removed, the auxin levels decrease, allowing the lateral buds to grow more freely.

3. **Application in Agriculture**: The removal of shoot tips is widely applied in practices such as tip plantation and bolting. In tip plantation, decapitation encourages the growth of lateral branches, which can lead to a bushier plant and potentially higher yields.

4. **Physiological Role of Auxin**: Auxin is a plant hormone that promotes the growth of the apical part of the plant while inhibiting the growth of lateral buds. By removing the shoot tip, the balance of auxin is altered, promoting the growth of lateral buds.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the removal of shoot tips (decapitation) is a technique used in agriculture to promote the growth of lateral branches, enhancing the overall growth and productivity of certain crops.

---