Question
QUESTION: I have read a few articles about this hormone and it's uses and I would like to know if you or your experts might shed some light or know of some reason why GA3 might not be safe for home gardens?

ANSWER: Hi Al,
Thanx for your question.  I am not an expert with Gibberellic acid  however, like you, I have read about it extensively and I understand its application in horticulture and agriculture.  I do know that if not used properly GA3 can cause uncontrolled growth in plants and can also inhibit root growth.  I have read that it should not come into contact with the skin or eyes but I have read that it is safe to use.  I would imagine like any other chemical (gibberellins are plant hormones), one can safely use it if one takes the appropriate steps to prevent contact with skin, eyes, internal, etc.  I know that Agriculture uses GA3 to increase fruit yields particiularly grapes, cherries and other fruit.  Horticulturally, GA3 is used to break dormancy of seeds that require warm/cold periods before dormancy is broken and the seed germiantes.  You can purchase GA3 kits that tell you specifically how much to use.  I don't know of anyone right now, who is using GA3 in home gardens other than horticultural hobbyists who use it to break dormancy of difficult to germinate seeds.  I hope this helps.
tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank You Tom for your useful info. There are sites on-line as to rates of use but I specifficly want to know about the folier feeding aspect and just how its done. I have many plants now growing and some of them are spectaculer, especially the melons, they are growing about a foot a day even the cantalopes are moving as fast as I can create water channels. All of these were seed soaked and planted on 8" hills.
I want to know at what strength to spray the tomatoes and weather the blossems or leaves should be sprayed by hand. Thanks again
Al B

Answer
Hi Al,
Thanx for the follow up.  Truly, this subject is way out of my field of expertise.  At best, I'm an amateur horticulturalist and have some experience as a small Certified Naturally Grown farmer.  Like you, I have read about GA3.  I have not actually used it as you have.  The best advice I can offer is for you to contact your local Agricultural or Horticultural Agent and your local University's Agricultural College.  They should be able to provide you with much better information than I can or at least get you in touch with the real experts.  If you'll give me your general location I can get you some contact information.  If you are outside of the United States, I still may be able to get you some other resources.  I hope this helps and I'm sorry I couldn't offer you some expertise in this area.
thx,
Tom