Why a houseplant become bushier if you pinch off its terminal bud?

When you pinch off the terminal bud of a houseplant, you remove the main source of growth hormone called auxin, which is concentrated at the tip. This encourages lateral buds to grow, as they are no longer inhibited by the auxin's presence. As a result, the plant develops more branches and leaves, leading to a bushier appearance. This technique is often used in gardening to promote fuller, denser plants.