Horticultural applications of jasmonates

SummaryPlant growth and development are controlled, in part, by endogenous growth substances which are affected by biotic and abiotic signals and events. A particular class of growth regulators, collectively called ‘jasmonates’ are involved in plant responses to such events and elicit unique responses. The effects of jasmonates on plant growth are varied and include storage organ formation, induction of plant defences against biotic (e.g., herbivores and pathogens) and abiotic (e.g., drought and ozone) stresses, and growth inhibition in tissues such as roots and young shoots. In addition, jasmonates can interact with other hormone pathways, especially ethylene, to affect growth and development. Detailed knowledge of jasmonate responses in models such as Arabidopsis is being put to use in a wide variety of horticultural crops. This review summarises the impacts of jasmonates on plant growth and physiology, and how jasmonates may impact horticultural crop growth, physiology, protection from stresses, and/or handling.