What are typical effects of ethylene exposure on cut flowers?

• A. It promotes longer vase life
• B. It has no effect
• C. It delays opening of buds
• D. It causes abscission of florets and leaves, leaf yellowing, and flower distortion

Answer: (D)

Ethylene speeds up aging in cut flowers. As a gaseous plant hormone, it triggers senescence processes that weaken tissues and cause them to detach. The symptoms described—abscission of florets and leaves, leaf yellowing, and flower distortion—are the typical signs of ethylene exposure in many cut flowers. Since ethylene accelerates aging, vase life is shortened, not extended. While some species may react differently, this combination of tissue drop, yellowing, and distorted blooms best reflects how ethylene commonly affects cut flowers. To minimize effects, keep flowers away from ethylene sources like ripe fruit, and ensure good ventilation and appropriate storage conditions.