Ethephon In Plant Growth Regulation

Ethephon is a widely used plant growth regulator that releases ethylene gas upon decomposition, influencing various physiological processes in plants. It is commonly applied to accelerate fruit ripening in crops such as tomatoes, bananas, and pineapples, ensuring uniform maturation and facilitating timely harvest. Additionally, ethephon promotes leaf and fruit abscission in fruit trees like apples and cherries, which aids in mechanical harvesting and orchard management. Beyond fruit crops, it is used to control plant height and prevent excessive vegetative growth, improving resistance to lodging. In cotton cultivation, ethephon enhances fiber maturity and quality by promoting leaf drop. Its versatility also extends to stimulating flowering and seed germination in certain plants. Proper dosage and timing are essential to maximize benefits while minimizing potential phytotoxic effects. Overall, ethephon serves as an essential tool in modern agriculture for optimizing plant development and crop production.