Silver thiosulphate: An experimental tool in plant science

The anti-ethylene properties of silver thiosulphate (STS) are reviewed. Because of the specificity of the silver ion in STS, ethylene sensitive and non-sensitive components can be distinguished in studies on the effects of ethylene on plant growth and development. The ability of STS to prevent wilting in cut flowers and petal drop in potted flowering plants, and to induce sex transformations in female plants, together with its relative ease of application and low cost per plant, are arguments in favour of using STS in commercial horticulture.