Effects of foliar and root applications of methanol or ethanol on the growth of tomato plants ( Lycopersicon esculentum Mill)

Young tomato plants were treated with foliar sprays and root applications of aqueous solutions of methanol and ethanol. Concentrations ranged from 5 to 20% v/v. Root applications caused severe plant damage. In contrast foliar sprays resulted in significant growth stimulation. Both alcohols increased leaf and stem fresh and dry weights with the maximum increases at the highest concentrations tested. Methanol produced a greater increase in stem length and stem fresh and dry weights than ethanol. There was no signficant difference between the alcohols in terms of leaf weights or leaf number.