Auxin is a plant hormone that plays a crucial role in plant growth and development. In tea plantations, auxin is used for several reasons:

1. Rooting: Auxin promotes root development and enhances the formation of new roots. This is especially beneficial during the propagation of tea plants when cuttings are taken to grow new plants. The application of auxin-based rooting hormones helps in faster and more successful root formation, leading to higher plant survival rates.

2. Stimulating growth: Auxin promotes shoot growth and elongation. In tea plantations, the application of auxin stimulates the growth of new shoots, which in turn increases the overall yield of tea leaves. This is particularly important in commercial tea production, where a high yield is desirable.

3. Flowering and fruiting: Auxin also plays a role in flowering and fruiting processes. It helps in the initiation of flower buds and promotes fruit set in tea plants. By applying auxin at specific stages, tea plantations can regulate and enhance the flowering and fruiting processes, leading to better tea production.

4. Controlling apical dominance: Apical dominance refers to the tendency of the main shoot to inhibit the growth of lateral shoots. By applying auxin, tea plantations can control apical dominance, allowing lateral shoots to grow more vigorously. This helps in achieving a more bushy and compact tea plant, which is desirable for easier harvesting and higher yield.

Overall, the use of auxin in tea plantations helps in improving root development, stimulating growth, enhancing flowering and fruiting, and controlling plant structure. These benefits contribute to increased productivity and better quality tea production.