A Potent Inhibitor of Ethylene Action in Plants

Abstract

Ag(I), applied foliarly as AgNO₃, effectively blocked the ability of exogenously applied ethylene to elicit the classical “triple” response in intact etiolated peas (Pisum sativumcv. Alaska); stimulate leaf, flower, and fruit abscission in cotton (Gossypium hirsutumcv. Stoneville 213); and induce senescence of orchids (Hybrid white Cattleya, Louise Georgeianna). This property of Ag(I) surpasses that of the well known ethylene antagonist, CO₂, and its persistence, specificity, and lack of phytotoxicity at effective concentrations should prove useful in defining further the role of ethylene in plant growth.