The mechanism underlying the phenomenon by which the terminal/apical bud suppresses the growth of lateral buds is known as apical dominance where apical bud growth is dominant. This is mainly due to the presence of auxin hormones synthesized in the tips of the apex of bud.

There are measures to overcome this phenomenon like: Decapitation or removal of the apical bud (shoot cutting) that inhibits growth of the apical bud and promotes the growth of the lateral branches. Cytokinin application can also be used in order to promote lateral bud growth and inhibit apical dominance.