Abstract: Vanadyl ion compositions for promoting plant growth, especially plant fruits, and the methods for applying the compositions are provided. Specifically, the compositions comprise an organic compound or complex of vanadyl ions and a carrier liquid. Preferably, the organic compound or complex of vanadyl ions is a vanadyl salt of a carboxylic acid, and the pH of the composition ranges from 6 to 8.The composition is applied to plants, especially monocots and dicots, to promote the growth of the plants. The composition may be sprayed on the foliage of the plants, applied to the earth around the plants, or applied to the roots of the plants by irrigation. The composition should be applied during the growth period of the plants, and particularly from about 21 days before the begining of the reproductive stage of the plant to about 21 days after the begining of the reproductive stage of the plant. The composition should be applied to achieve a treatment rate ranging from about 0.0006 to 0.