Reversion of Senescence: Effects of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid and Indoleacetic Acid on Respiration, Ethylene Production, and Ripening of Banana Fruit Slices

Abstract

Slices cut from green, unripe fruit were treated by infiltration with aqueous solutions of 2,4·dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4·D) and indoleacetic acid (lAA). 2,4.D delayed but increased the size of those peaks in respiration and ethylene production which are induced by cutting; ripening was also delayed. These effects were proportional to concentrations of 2,4.D in the range 1O-LlO-3M. Higher concentrations caused injury.