Farmers’ Use of Plant Growth Regulators Registered by the Department of Agricultural Extension in Bangladesh

Abstract

This study examined farmers’ use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) registered by the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Bangladesh and contribution of the selected characteristics of the farmers to their PGR use. Data were collected from 150 farmers of Shibganj upazila under Bogura district by using a pre-tested interview schedules during the period from November 2020 to March 2021. Results revealed that the majority (70.7%) of the farmers were medium users of Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) followed by 15.3% low users and 14.0% high users. Based on descending order of Standardized PGR Use Index, ‘Nitrobenzenes’ ranked first followed by ‘4-Chlorophenoxyacetic acid (4-CPA), ‘Gibberellic acid (GA₃)’, ‘Micronutrient supplementary as PGR’ and ‘Amino acid. Knowledge on PGRs, attitude towards use of PGRs, farming experience and awareness on use of PGRs of the farmers had significant contribution to their use of PGRs. Based on the findings it may be concluded that attempts should be taken by the concerned authority like DAE to increase judicious use of PGRs for better and time demanded crop management by providing necessary and authentic information on PGRs to the farmers.

SAARC J. Agric., 24(1): 235-248 (2026)