The vascular connection theory states that in a nutrient-deprived plant, auxin or other inhibitory factors are diverted to the lateral meristems to prevent growth and development–allowing apical dominance.
The vascular connection theory is a combination of two other theories–the direct inhibition theory and nutrient-diversion theory. Both of these theories are based on extensive research conducted by many botanists.
Experimental Morphongenesis and Plant Integration explains each of these theories in succinct detail.
