Concept:
Apical dominance is the phenomenon in which the main central stem of a plant grows more strongly than the side branches. This occurs due to the action of plant hormones that regulate growth.
Auxin is the plant hormone responsible for promoting apical dominance. It is synthesized in the apical bud (tip of the plant) and transported downward.
Step 1: Understand the role of auxin.
Auxin inhibits the growth of lateral (side) buds while promoting elongation of the main shoot.
Step 2: Mechanism of action.
Auxin moves from the apical bud downward and suppresses the growth of axillary buds, preventing branching.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, auxin maintains apical dominance by ensuring the main stem grows preferentially.
\[
\boxed{\text{Auxin}}
\]