Ethylene plays a fundamental role in the survival and development of flowers. This phytohormone, although it is mainly known for its role in fruit ripening, also has a significant impact on various life processes of flowers. One of the most notable effects of ethylene is its ability to induce senescence or aging of flowers. At certain stages of floral development, ethylene acts as a signal that triggers the fall of petals and other flower parts, a crucial process for seed dispersal and the continuity of the reproductive cycle of plants.
Controlling ethylene levels can therefore influence flower longevity, their ability to attract pollinators and overall flowering quality.
The application of products such as Harvista 1.3 SC in the flowering phase can help regulate the negative effects of ethylene, prolonging the shelf life of flowers and improving their quality. Harvista works by inhibiting the action of ethylene, allowing flowers to stay fresh and functional for longer. This increases the shelf life of flowers, which translates into increased crop productivity by ensuring a higher rate of flowers available for pollination and fruit set. As a result, farmers can increase the profitability and sustainability of their farms.
AgroFresh has been working on the development of this tool in Chile since 2019, determining the appropriate application rate to maximize the benefits of Harvista. When Harvista is applied at the flowering stage, it can significantly boost the productivity of cherry orchards. Harvista 1.3 SC applied at flowering has been shown to increase yield by up to 30%, by improving fruit retention and setting.
