Root-formation of trees (e.g. side-rooting in transplanted trees) is stimulated by applying 9-substd. adenines of formula (I): (where R is lower or medium alkyl, alkenyl or phenylalkyl), e.g. 9-benzyladenine, to bark-free areas or cuts on the stem, branches or roots of the trees. The method of root stimulation can be used in the air-layering method of progating trees, to stimulate side-root formation in trees transplanted with only a few roots intact, or to improve water-uptake in specimens where for aesthetic reasons it is undesirable to reduce transpiration by the usual method of removing foliage. (I) can be prepd. by treating a soln. of adenine in e.g. DMSO with R-X (X = halogen), adding anhydrous K2CO3, reacting 3 hrs. at 50-60 degrees C, removing solvent, and recrystallizing the resulting crude prod.
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