Ethephon
Type: Plant Growth Regulator
Mode of Action: Mimics this natural process of Ethylene
Common Product Names: Verve
What is it?
Ethephon is a synthetic compound that, when applied to plants, is absorbed and metabolized, releasing ethylene gas. This gas acts as a growth regulator, promoting or inhibiting various physiological processes depending on the crop and desired outcome. It is particularly valued in agriculture for its ability to synchronize the ripening of fruits, induce flowering in ornamental plants, and promote the maturation of certain crops, such as cotton. Ethephon is generally applied as a foliar spray and is absorbed through the leaves, where it is converted into ethylene. It is widely used on crops such as pineapples, tomatoes, apples, tobacco, and cotton.
How does it work?
Ethephon works by releasing ethylene, a key plant hormone that regulates a wide range of physiological processes. Once applied to a plant, Ethephon penetrates the plant tissue and undergoes chemical changes that result in the slow release of ethylene. This ethylene can trigger several responses depending on the plant species and developmental stage. For example:
- Fruit Ripening: Ethephon can be used to synchronize the ripening of fruits like tomatoes and apples, making it easier to harvest them uniformly.
- Flower Induction: In ornamental plants and some fruit crops, Ethephon can induce flowering, leading to more predictable bloom times.
- Leaf Abscission: Ethephon can promote leaf drop in crops like cotton, making it easier to harvest the fiber.