For this reason, if not well used and if certain factors arise, Plant Growth Regulators (PGRs) posses drawbacks that reduce its effectiveness in the agriculture industry.
1.Incorrect Dosage and Timing
One of the complexities of using PGRs is the fact that they may be administered at the wrong concentration or at a wrong time. It is toxic to plants if applied in large quantities; it can result in scorched leaves, stunted growth or poor flowering. On the other hand, under-application maybe ineffective as it does not achieve the intended impacts within the intended areas of application. Others are timing issues, where by application of PGRs at wrong time either early or late for the growth cycle can be counterproductive.
2.Environmental Impact
The problem that appears when using PGRs is chemical run off due to excessive application of PGRs that pollutes the ground and water. This can be had an impact on non-target species and hence the ecosystem within which the species is invaded upon. Little is known about the effects of some PGRs given their long life cycle on the environment, but the improper use of these substances results in pollution and biological losses.
3.Resistance and Over-reliance
Excessive application of PGRs results in resistance formation in some selected crops, and subsequently, effectiveness of these chemicals diminishes gradually. As this could mean farmers requiring more to feel the same effect then a likelihood of misuse arises.
4.Regulatory Non-compliance
PGRs are governed by particular rules but some farmers may not follow local agricultural laws and Regulations thus they face legal consequences and in the process harm the safety of the crops.
Therefore, the studies discussed in this paper for both PGR benefits and drawbacks show that the drawbacks are actually the result of the improper application, environmental concerns, and regulatory lapses, which and so mean that PGRs should be used responsibly.