Biochemical mode of action and ethylene release
Ethephon (2-chloroethylphosphonic acid) penetrates plant foliage, fruit skin, or bark. When absorbed into plant cell cytoplasm where pH is above 4.5, it undergoes chemical hydrolysis, breaking down into ethylene gas, chloride, and phosphate. The released ethylene triggers pectinase and cellulase enzymes that soften fruit tissues and convert starches to sugars.
- Active ingredient: Ethephon 39% SL (soluble liquid)
- Physiological hormone: Ethylene generator (PGR)
- Action spectrum: Regulates ripening, abscission, flowering sex expression, and latex stimulation
Major agricultural applications in India
- Post-harvest fruit ripening: Used in controlled chambers to ripen mature green bananas, mangoes, and papayas safely (replacing hazardous calcium carbide).
- Sugarcane and cotton: Enhances sugarcane tillering and promotes uniform boll opening and defoliation in cotton.
- Cucurbits (gourds and melons): Applied at early 2 to 4 leaf stages to increase the ratio of female to male flowers, improving fruit yield.
- Rubber plantations: Applied to tapping cuts to stimulate latex yield and prolong flow duration.
Food safety and statutory guidelines
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) permits the use of ethephon gas in closed ripening chambers up to 100 ppm, strictly prohibiting direct fruit dipping or unauthorized chemical misuse. Always adhere to CIBRC registered label doses, pre-harvest intervals, and safety standards.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
How does Ethephon promote fruit ripening?
It breaks down inside plant tissues to release natural ethylene gas, triggering the enzymes that soften pulp and convert starches to sugars.
Is Ethephon legal for fruit ripening in India?
Yes, FSSAI permits ethylene gas treatment derived from ethephon in controlled chambers, while banning dangerous calcium carbide.
How does Ethephon benefit cucurbit vegetables?
Sprayed at the 2-4 leaf stage, it induces a higher proportion of female flowers, increasing the potential number of harvestable fruits.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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