A potent inhibitor of ethylene action in plants [Peas, cotton, Cattleya]

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 sativum cv. Alaska); stimulate leaf, flower, and fruit abscission in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum cv. 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.