What is ethephon? How does it function in plants? Give any two of its functions.
Ethephon: It is a compound used as a source of ethylene for plant growth. It is an aqueous solution that is easily absorbed by the plants and transported within the plant. It releases ethylene slowly. Functions of ethephon are as follows: It accelerates abscission in flowers and thinning in cotton, walnut, and cherry, etc. It promotes the development of female flowers in cucumbers thereby increasing the yield.