What is a common plant response after removing branches?

• A. Leaves fall permanently
• B. A vigorous flush of new shoots
• C. Immediate flowering
• D. Immediate root death

Answer: (B)

Removing branches triggers regrowth through release of apical dominance. The growing tip normally sends hormones that keep lateral buds quiet. When that tip is removed, those signals decline, freeing latent buds to activate and produce a vigorous flush of new shoots. This rapid regrowth helps the plant quickly restore its leafy canopy after pruning. Timing and species influence how strong the flush will be. The other outcomes aren’t typical: pruning doesn’t cause leaves to fall permanently, it doesn’t usually trigger immediate flowering, and it doesn’t cause immediate root death.