Want to cultivate the perfect container plants? This is where ethephon substrate drenches come into play, offering a game-changing solution for controlling plant growth! Let's dive into how these drenches are revolutionizing the world of horticulture.
Stem Elongation in Perennials: A Balancing Act
A fascinating study explored the use of ethephon drenches to manage stem elongation in container-grown herbaceous perennials. The findings? Targeted applications can effectively control plant height, ensuring your plants look their best without sacrificing their overall health. This means growers can produce uniform, high-quality plants that are perfectly suited for retail markets.
Growth Management in Annual Bedding Plants: Achieving the Perfect Look
Another study examined the effects of ethephon drenches on annual bedding plants. Researchers discovered that controlled applications can limit excessive growth, leading to more compact plants with improved aesthetics. And this is the part most people miss: this approach offers valuable guidance for growers seeking cost-effective and efficient growth management strategies in greenhouse and nursery production.
Industry Implications: Efficiency and Aesthetics Combined
Effective height and growth control are essential for both aesthetic appeal and operational efficiency in ornamental horticulture. This research provides actionable information to help growers enhance plant uniformity, reduce labor-intensive pruning, and improve overall crop marketability. It supports more sustainable and profitable production practices.
The Minds Behind the Research
This groundbreaking research was led by W. Tyler Rich, a research associate, as part of his Master of Science degree in the Department of Horticulture and Crop Science at The Ohio State University. The work supports the label expansion of Collate® 2L (ethephon). As of May 2025, Collate® 2L is the only ethephon product with EPA approval for substrate drench use and foliar sprays. These findings encourage grower adoption, application timing, and responsible use in floriculture production.
W. Garrett Owen, an extension Specialist and Assistant Professor of Sustainable Greenhouse Nursery Systems, also played a key role. His expertise lies in floriculture crop production, plant nutrition and growth regulation, nutritional monitoring, and crop diagnostics.
The Bigger Picture: ASHS and Horticultural Science
The American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS), established in 1903, is a leading professional society for horticultural scientists worldwide. ASHS is dedicated to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture. With thousands of members globally, ASHS represents a diverse cross-section of the horticultural community.
Controversy & Comment Hooks:
But here's where it gets controversial... While ethephon drenches offer significant benefits, some growers might be concerned about the potential environmental impact or the need for precise application. What are your thoughts on this? Do you see any drawbacks to using ethephon, or do you believe it's a valuable tool for modern horticulture? Share your opinions in the comments below!
