Final answer:
Controlling plant height varies between vegetables and ornamentals; vegetables focus on yield and ease of harvest, while ornamentals are shaped for aesthetic value.
Step-by-step explanation:
Controlling plant height in vegetables vs. ornamentals can have different goals and methods due to their distinct uses. In vegetable production, control of plant height is often geared towards maximizing yield and facilitating harvest. Techniques may include the use of plant hormones, selective breeding for dwarf varieties, and management of light exposure and nutrients. For instance, applying too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit formation. In contrast, ornamental plants are primarily grown for their aesthetic value, so height control may focus on creating desired shapes and sizes for landscape design, and can often involve more pruning and shaping techniques. In addition, ornamentals might be selected for their ability to produce a particular flower or foliage display, regardless of their size.