What happens to a plant when lateral buds are removed?

Removing lateral buds from a plant typically encourages vertical growth. This occurs because the lateral buds are associated with branching and spreading. When these buds are removed, it reduces the competition for growth hormones like auxins, which favor vertical shoot development. Consequently, the plant may redirect its energy and resources toward the main stem, resulting in increased height and stronger upward growth.

This phenomenon demonstrates a principle in plant growth known as apical dominance, where the main stem's growth is prioritized over lateral branches. Without lateral buds, there is less diversion of resources, allowing the central stem to grow more robustly.