Ethephon

The pure product is white needle crystal. m.p.74 ～ 75 ℃ , easily soluble in water and alcohol, insoluble in dichloroethane and benzene. It is stable under acidic conditions of pH<3, releases ethylene under pH>3 and alkaline conditions, and releases ethylene and 2-hydroxyphosphonic acid in plants. The industrial product is light yellow viscous liquid or waxy solid.

Ethephon is a plant growth regulator, which has the physiological effects of plant hormones to increase the secretion of emulsion, accelerate maturation, shedding, aging and promote flowering

Definition:

Ethephon is a plant growth regulator that releases ethylene, a natural plant hormone, upon decomposition. It is widely used to promote ripening, flowering, and other growth processes in crops.

Mechanism of Action:

Ethephon is absorbed by plant tissues and metabolized into ethylene gas. Ethylene acts as a signaling molecule, influencing various physiological processes such as fruit ripening, abscission, and senescence.

Applications:

1. Agriculture:

   • Promotes uniform ripening in fruits like tomatoes and bananas.

   • Enhances boll opening in cotton.

   • Speeds up the maturity of crops such as rice and sugarcane.

2. Horticulture:

   • Stimulates flowering in ornamental plants.

   • Encourages early fruit set and drop for thinning purposes.

3. Forestry:

   • Assists in latex flow improvement in rubber trees.

4. Commercial Uses:

   • Used in pineapple cultivation to induce synchronized flowering.

Functions in Plants:

• Ripening Agent:
  Speeds up the ripening process in climacteric fruits.

• Abscission Induction:
  Promotes leaf, fruit, and flower drop, aiding in harvest management.

• Growth Regulation:
  Inhibits excessive vegetative growth and enhances reproductive growth.

• Stress Response:
  Improves plant tolerance to environmental stresses by modulating ethylene levels.

Formulations and Usage:

1. Formulations:

   • Available as water-soluble liquids or powders.

2. Application Methods:

   • Foliar Spray:

     • Apply directly to leaves for ripening or flowering induction.

     
     

   • Soil Application:

     • Use for root absorption in specific crops.

     
     

3. Concentration:

   • Typical concentrations range from 100 to 1,000 ppm, depending on the crop and purpose.

4. Timing:

   • Apply at specific growth stages for optimal results.

Benefits:

• Improved Harvest Efficiency:
  Ensures uniform ripening and facilitates mechanical harvesting.

• Higher Yields:
  Enhances crop productivity by promoting efficient growth and development.

• Cost-Effective:
  Reduces labor costs by synchronizing harvests.

Safety and Environmental Considerations:

• Toxicity:

  • Low acute toxicity when used as directed.

  • Avoid inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.

• Environmental Impact:

  • Decomposes into natural compounds, minimizing ecological risks.

Handling and Storage:

• Storage Conditions:

  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

  • Keep the container tightly sealed.

• Safety Measures:

  • Use protective gloves, goggles, and clothing when handling.

  • Wash thoroughly after use.

Conclusion:

Ethephon is a versatile plant growth regulator that plays a crucial role in modern agriculture and horticulture. By promoting ripening, flowering, and stress tolerance, it contributes to enhanced productivity and efficient crop management. Proper handling and application ensure its effectiveness and safety in agricultural practices.