Benzyladenine was applied to the seed of tall and dwarf pea varieties. The principal effects, all of which were proportional to concentration of benzyladenine were: 1. retardation of cotyledon senescence, 2. inhibition of overall root and shoot growth, 3. induction of branching, resulting in redistribution of shoot fresh weight. It is concluded that distribution of nutrients between cotyledons, stem and root is a controlling factor for normal pea growth and development. Benzyladenine has its effects by altering this distribution.