How Does Ethephon Release Ethylene to Promote Crop Maturation and Harvest Efficiency?

Technical Introduction

Ethephon (C₂H₆ClO₃P, CAS No. 16672-87-0) is a plant growth regulator that serves as a controlled-release source of ethylene gas, a key hormone in plant ripening and abscission processes.
Upon application, ethephon penetrates plant tissues and decomposes to release ethylene, triggering physiological responses such as fruit ripening, leaf abscission, and flowering.
It is water-soluble and formulated as a liquid or wettable powder for foliar application.

Applications

1. Agriculture

• Fruit Ripening: Accelerates uniform ripening in tomatoes, pineapples, bananas, and other climacteric fruits.

• Harvest Management: Promotes leaf and fruit abscission in cotton and coffee for easier mechanical harvesting.

• Flower Induction: Enhances flowering in pineapples and other crops.

2. Horticulture

• Controls plant height and promotes flowering synchronization in ornamentals.

Advantages

• Controlled Ethylene Release: Provides ethylene inside the plant without external gas application.

• Improves Harvest Efficiency: Facilitates timely and uniform crop maturity.

• Versatile Use: Applicable in various crops with flexible timing.

Typical Parameters

FAQs

Q1: How quickly does ethephon work after application?
A1: Effects typically appear within days, depending on crop and environmental conditions.

Q2: Can ethephon be used on all fruits?
A2: Mostly on climacteric fruits; some non-climacteric crops are less responsive.

Q3: Is ethephon safe for the environment?
A3: It breaks down into non-toxic substances, but misuse can cause phytotoxicity.

Q4: How is ethephon applied?
A4: Via foliar sprays, often diluted in water at recommended rates.

Q5: Can ethephon be mixed with other agrochemicals?
A5: Sometimes, but compatibility tests are recommended before tank mixing.