Ethephon 2SL/480SL Plant Growth Regulator

Ethephon Plant Growth Regulator – Enhancing Ripening, Latex Yield, and Harvest Efficiency

Ethephon is a highly effective plant growth regulator that functions by releasing ethylene, a natural plant hormone responsible for accelerating physiological processes such as fruit ripening, flower induction, leaf abscission, and latex flow. With its versatility across various crops and growth stages, Ethephon has become an essential agricultural input in modern cultivation practices.

POMAIS offers Ethephon in a wide range of formulations—Ethephon 2SL, 39 SL, 480 SL, and 98% TC—to meet diverse agronomic requirements and regional application standards. Each batch is manufactured under stringent quality protocols and complies with global safety and residue regulations.

Key Functional Benefits:

• Uniform Ripening: Promotes synchronized maturity in fruits like pineapple, tomato, mango, and coffee.
• Harvest Aid in Cotton: Facilitates boll opening and defoliation, allowing for more efficient mechanical harvesting and improved lint quality.
• Latex Enhancement in Rubber Trees: Widely used in rubber plantations to stimulate ethylene release and maximize latex output.
• Stress Response Modulation: Helps crops adapt to stress by regulating plant senescence and hormonal balance.

Ethephon is rapidly absorbed by plant tissues and systemically transported, where it is metabolized to ethylene. This controlled release makes it suitable for spray applications across different crops and climatic conditions.

At POMAIS, we understand the evolving demands of global agriculture. Our Ethephon-based products are not only effective but also support full OEM/ODM customization, offering tailored labeling, formulation adjustment, and packaging solutions for agrochemical distributors, cooperatives, and regional farm supply chains.

Whether you’re managing large-scale cotton harvests, rubber tapping operations, or fruit supply chains, POMAIS Ethephon ensures consistent performance, improved labor efficiency, and higher marketable yield.

Mode of Action of Ethephon

Ethephon functions as a systemic plant growth regulator by penetrating plant tissues and decomposing into ethylene, a natural phytohormone that regulates numerous developmental processes. Once absorbed through foliage or fruit surfaces, Ethephon travels via the plant’s vascular system and releases ethylene under physiological pH conditions inside plant cells.

This ethylene release triggers a cascade of hormonal responses that accelerate:

• Fruit ripening and coloration (especially in tomatoes, pineapples, mangoes, and bananas)
• Leaf abscission and senescence (useful in cotton defoliation and ornamentals)
• Cell elongation and stem growth modulation
• Latex flow stimulation in rubber trees via increased cambial activity

Ethephon’s biochemical transformation is temperature and pH-dependent, with the optimal activity occurring in the slightly acidic environment of plant tissues. Because it mimics the plant’s natural hormonal pathways, Ethephon offers reliable and predictable effects across various climatic conditions and growth stages.

Unlike other plant growth regulators that require metabolic activation or enzymatic pathways, Ethephon’s mode of action is direct and efficient, making it suitable for high-value crops and harvest-critical applications. This also enables its integration into mechanized farming systems as a reliable harvest aid.

Target Crops & Application Uses

Ethephon-based plant growth regulators are widely used across a variety of commercial crops to enhance ripening, synchronize harvest, regulate growth, and improve marketable yield. Its versatility makes it an essential input in intensive horticulture and plantation agriculture.

Fruit Crops

• Tomatoes, Bananas, Mangoes, Pineapples, Apples, Grapes
  • Ethephon spray accelerates uniform ripening and improves fruit coloration, especially in pre-harvest applications.
  • Reduces post-harvest handling costs by enabling single-pass harvesting.
  • Commonly used concentrations: ethephon 480 SL, ethephon 39 SL.

Rubber Trees

• Hevea brasiliensis (Rubber)
  • Promotes latex yield enhancement by stimulating latex flow through ethylene release.
  • Used in high-density plantations under tapping management systems.
  • Widely adopted in Southeast Asia under ethephon 2SL and ethephon 6 formulations.

Cereal & Fiber Crops

• Cotton
  • Acts as a defoliant and boll opener, facilitating mechanical harvesting and improving lint quality.
  • Regulates canopy structure to reduce disease pressure.
  • Application rate depends on maturity and climatic conditions; often used as ethephon-based herbicide for cottonwood defoliation.

Ornamentals & Turfgrass

• Promotes compact growth in nursery stock by inhibiting excessive vegetative growth.
• Supports uniform blooming and easier pruning cycles.

Other Targeted Uses

• Wheat & Rice: Enhances synchronization in panicle emergence and ripening.
• Tobacco: Used to regulate flower removal and increase leaf size for processing.

Ethephon’s multi-crop functionality makes it a preferred plant growth regulator across diverse agricultural systems, whether your needs involve early ripening, increased latex flow, or crop defoliation.

Application Methods & Recommended Dosage

Ethephon formulations—such as ethephon 2SL, ethephon 480 SL, and ethephon 39 SL—are applied primarily as foliar sprays. Application timing, dilution rate, and spray technique depend on the crop, target effect, and environmental conditions.

Tomatoes, Bananas, Mangoes, and Other Fruits

• Purpose: Induce uniform ripening and color enhancement
• Application Rate:
  • Ethephon 480 SL: 1000–2000 ppm (typically 2–4 mL/L of water)
• Timing: Apply at the breaker or mature green stage; ensure good fruit development and dry weather conditions.
• Method: High-volume foliar spray using knapsack or mist blowers

Rubber Trees (Hevea brasiliensis)

• Purpose: Stimulate latex flow
• Application Rate:
  • Ethephon 2SL: 2–3% solution, applied as a paste or via bark application
• Frequency: Every 15–30 days depending on tapping schedule
• Method: Brush application to the tapping panel just above the tapping cut

Cotton

• Purpose: Act as a boll opener and defoliant before harvest
• Application Rate:
  • 1000–3000 ppm depending on maturity and cultivar
• Timing: 7–14 days prior to expected harvest date
• Method: Uniform foliar spray with tractor-mounted or aerial sprayers

Tobacco

• Purpose: Flower removal and improved leaf expansion
• Dosage: 500–1000 ppm applied as a foliar spray at the early bud stage

Chrysanthemums and Ornamentals

• Purpose: Growth regulation and delay flowering
• Rate: 200–500 ppm under controlled light cycle
• Method: Precision foliar misting to avoid oversaturation

For optimal results, ethephon spray must be applied under mild temperatures (15–30°C), with adequate humidity and no rainfall forecasted within 6 hours. Always use clean water and calibrated sprayers to ensure uniform coverage.

Formulation Variants & Product Range

POMAIS offers a diverse selection of ethephon-based plant growth regulators, designed to meet a wide range of agronomic, horticultural, and plantation crop requirements. Each formulation is tailored for specific climatic conditions, crop types, and application methods to ensure optimal effectiveness and ease of use.

Available Formulations

• Ethephon 2SL (2%)
  A standard aqueous solution designed for foliar spray use on cotton, tomatoes, and fruit crops. Known for its ease of dilution, fast uptake, and reliable ripening effect.
• Ethephon 39 SL
  A high-concentration formulation suitable for controlled-ripening applications and enhanced crop maturity management. It provides a good balance between performance and safety.
• Ethephon 40 SL
  Commonly used in tropical plantations and horticultural settings for uniform ripening and improved market readiness of crops like mango, papaya, and pineapple.
• Ethephon 480 SL
  A premium-grade formulation offering high active ingredient concentration for use in industrial-scale rubber latex stimulation, cotton boll opening, and fruit harvest acceleration.
• Ethephon 98% TC (Technical Concentrate)
  Intended for manufacturers and pesticide formulation plants. This raw material is used to develop downstream formulations under custom brands and local compliance standards.

Product Formats

• Liquid SL (Soluble Concentrate):
  Offered in 100 mL, 500 mL, 1 L, and 5 L HDPE bottles or fluorinated drums
• Technical Powder (TC):
  Available in 25 kg fiber drums for industrial use
• Customized Labeling & OEM Support:
  Full private-label and branded packaging services with design support in multiple languages

All formulations comply with relevant international agrochemical standards and are available for bulk purchase or regional distribution.

Tank Mix Compatibility & Application Precautions

Ethephon is generally compatible with a wide range of agricultural inputs, but specific precautions must be followed to ensure safe and effective use under varying field conditions.

Tank Mix Compatibility

Ethephon formulations (e.g., 2SL, 480SL) are often compatible with:

• Non-alkaline foliar nutrients
• Selective herbicides
• Insecticides and fungicides that maintain neutral to slightly acidic pH
• Surfactants or wetting agents (check label recommendations)

Important Compatibility Notes:

• Do not mix ethephon with alkaline substances, such as Bordeaux mixture, lime sulfur, or copper-based fungicides. These may cause premature release of ethylene gas, reducing product efficacy and potentially causing phytotoxicity.
• Conduct a jar test before large-scale mixing to confirm physical compatibility and pH stability.
• If used with other agrochemicals, ensure ethephon is the last to be added to the spray tank with constant agitation.

Application Precautions

To ensure optimal performance and safety during field application:

• Avoid spraying under high temperature or drought stress, as ethylene release may accelerate unpredictably, potentially harming crops.
• Do not apply during strong wind or imminent rainfall, which may lead to product loss or uneven distribution.
• Use protective equipment during handling to avoid skin and respiratory exposure, as ethephon may cause moderate irritation.
• Do not re-enter treated areas until spray residues are dry, unless wearing appropriate PPE.
• In areas close to aquatic environments, buffer zones should be maintained to prevent potential runoff.
• Ethephon is not recommended for use in greenhouses unless exhaust systems are in place to manage ethylene accumulation.

Following these guidelines ensures both the safety of farm workers and the consistent performance of ethephon-based plant growth regulation programs.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety Classification

Ethephon-based products from POMAIS are manufactured in strict compliance with international pesticide regulations, ensuring both product safety and legal marketability across key agricultural regions.

Regulatory Approvals & Compliance

• CAS Number: 16672-87-0
• Chemical Classification: Ethylene-releasing plant growth regulator (PGR)
• International Standards:
  • FAO/WHO specifications for pesticide quality
  • EU REACH registration support available upon request
  • U.S. EPA registered active ingredient (for Ethephon 2SL and similar formulations)
  • China ICAMA certification for export control
  • Label & MSDS documents in compliance with GHS (Globally Harmonized System)

POMAIS provides all necessary technical documentation, including:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Toxicology profile and ecotoxicity reports
• ISO-compliant packaging traceability

Toxicological & Safety Classification

• Acute Oral Toxicity: Moderately hazardous (LD50 ranges between 1000–5000 mg/kg in rats)
• Irritation: May cause skin and eye irritation; protective gear required
• Corrosivity: Not corrosive to standard-grade stainless steel or HDPE packaging
• Storage Classification: Keep in a cool, ventilated, dry place, away from alkaline products or strong oxidizers
• Environmental Impact: Classified as toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects—prevent contamination of waterways

Label Safety Warnings

• Signal Word: Warning
• Hazard Statements:
  • H302: Harmful if swallowed
  • H319: Causes serious eye irritation
  • H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects
• Precautionary Statements:
  • P264: Wash hands thoroughly after handling
  • P280: Wear protective gloves and eye protection
  • P273: Avoid release to the environment
  • P301 + P312: IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER or doctor

By complying with global regulatory frameworks and offering a robust safety profile, POMAIS ensures that your procurement and distribution of ethephon products remains fully secure, efficient, and legally compliant.

Packaging Formats & Custom OEM Services

At POMAIS, we understand that efficient handling, storage, and branding of ethephon products are critical to your supply chain and market presence. That’s why we offer a wide range of packaging solutions tailored to suit your distribution needs—whether you’re supplying large-scale agricultural operations or retail-ready outlets.

Available Packaging Formats

You can choose from our standard packaging or request fully customized formats:

• Bulk Packaging for Industrial Use:
  • 200L HDPE drum
  • 1,000L IBC tank
  • Suitable for large plantations and contract spraying operations
• Retail-Ready Packs:
  • 1L / 500ml / 250ml HDPE bottles
  • Leak-proof, UV-stabilized, labeled per your market requirements
• Laboratory-grade Samples:
  • 100ml R&D packs for field trials or registration samples

All containers meet UN-certified safety standards and are compatible with ethephon’s acidic nature, preventing corrosion or decomposition during long-haul shipping.

OEM/ODM Customization Services

Whether you’re a brand owner, regional distributor, or agri-input company, POMAIS offers flexible OEM and ODM services to help you succeed in your market:

• Custom Labeling: We design and print multilingual, GHS-compliant labels in line with your local regulations and branding strategy.
• Private Branding: Launch your own ethephon product line with our support—formulations, packaging, and documentation included.
• Formula Adjustment: Need a specific concentration (e.g., ethephon 2SL, 39SL, 480SL)? We manufacture to your exact specs.
• Documentation Support: Full dossier support for registration in Africa, South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Logistics & Traceability

• Palletized shipment for easy loading/unloading
• Shrink-wrapped secondary packaging to prevent leakage
• Lot coding & batch tracking for post-market quality control

We deliver with 99% on-time performance, and our logistics team ensures you receive your goods intact—whether by sea, rail, or air.

Field Applications & Global Market Suitability

Ethephon’s versatility and systemic action make it a widely adopted plant growth regulator across diverse agro-climatic zones. Whether you’re managing fruit ripening, latex flow in rubber trees, or uniform defoliation in cotton fields, POMAIS ethephon solutions are field-tested and globally validated for consistent performance.

Key Agricultural Applications

• Cotton Cultivation
  Used to promote boll opening and facilitate mechanical harvesting, ethephon ensures uniform maturity and reduces labor dependency.
  Keywords: ethephon-based herbicide for cottonwood trees, ethephon for cotton defoliation
• Rubber Production
  Applied to stimulate ethylene release and enhance latex flow from Hevea brasiliensis, it helps optimize tapping cycles and yield output.
  Keywords: ethephon in rubber production, ethephon growth regulator for latex
• Pineapple, Tomato, and Banana
  Commonly used as a ripening aid to synchronize harvesting and improve market-grade fruit coloration.
  Keywords: ethephon spray for fruit ripening, ethephon for banana ripening
• Tobacco Curing
  Applied to accelerate maturity and facilitate yellowing, especially in flue-cured tobacco operations.
• Cereal Crops (Wheat, Barley)
  Promotes stem shortening and enhances lodging resistance in certain growth stages when integrated with plant growth regulation programs.

Market Suitability by Region

FAQ – Common Questions About Ethephon

Q1: What is Ethephon used for in agriculture?

A: Ethephon is primarily used as a plant growth regulator to promote fruit ripening (e.g., banana, pineapple, tomato), induce boll opening in cotton, accelerate latex flow in rubber trees, and enhance tobacco curing. It also helps with uniform defoliation and lodging resistance in cereals.

Q2: What is the recommended dosage for Ethephon 2SL or 480 SL?

A: Dosage varies by crop and purpose. For example:

• Cotton defoliation: 1000–1500 ml/ha
• Rubber latex stimulation: 1.5–2.0% solution applied to tapping panels
• Tomato/Pineapple ripening: 250–500 ppm foliar spray
  Always follow local guidelines or consult our agronomists for tailored protocols.

Q3: Is Ethephon a herbicide or a growth regulator?

A: Ethephon is classified as a plant growth regulator (PGR), not a herbicide. However, due to its effect on ethylene release, it can sometimes be categorized under ethephon-based herbicide for certain defoliation functions, such as in cotton.

Q4: Can Ethephon be tank-mixed with other agricultural inputs?

A: Ethephon should not be mixed with alkaline substances. Compatibility with fertilizers and pesticides should be confirmed via a small-scale jar test or by referring to our tank-mix compatibility chart provided with each batch.

Q5: Is Ethephon safe for the environment?

A: When used according to label instructions, Ethephon is considered low-risk to the environment. However, avoid spraying near water bodies and follow local buffer zone regulations. POMAIS provides all safety data sheets (SDS) and environmental compliance documentation upon request.

Q6: What is the shelf life and storage requirement for Ethephon formulations?

A: Our Ethephon products have a shelf life of 2 years when stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Avoid freezing and high humidity to maintain product integrity.

Q7: Do you offer private label or OEM packaging for Ethephon?

A: Yes. POMAIS supports full OEM services including custom label design, bottle/jug customization, and multilingual regulatory support. Minimum order quantity and lead time vary by formulation and packaging format.

Why Choose POMAIS as Your Ethephon Supplier

Choosing the right Ethephon supplier is critical for ensuring consistent field performance, regulatory compliance, and long-term business reliability. At POMAIS, we combine technical excellence, flexible manufacturing, and global market expertise to help you succeed in your agricultural input business.

1. Full-Range Ethephon Formulations from an Experienced Manufacturer

We offer a complete portfolio of Ethephon-based products—including Ethephon 2SL, 39 SL, 480 SL, and 98% TC—to meet different crop demands and local regulatory requirements. Our in-house R&D and production lines allow us to deliver consistently high-quality formulations tailored to global markets.

2. OEM/ODM Support with Custom Labeling and Packaging

Whether you’re an importer, distributor, or brand owner, we provide full-service OEM solutions, including bottle customization, multi-language labeling, and design support. With over 10 years of experience in pesticide packaging, we help you create a strong, compliant brand in your target country.

3. Global Registration and Documentation Support

Our regulatory team provides technical dossiers, COA, MSDS, TDS, and ICP data, supporting your local product registration. We are well-versed in compliance with FAO specifications and can assist with ICAMA-related processes where required.

4. Reliable Supply Chain and Fast Lead Times

Thanks to our optimized logistics and export experience across Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East, we maintain short lead times (typically within 10–15 days) and 99% on-time delivery rates. We manage all stages from formulation to shipment—so you don’t have to.

5. Quality Assurance You Can Trust

POMAIS operates under strict ISO 9001:2000 manufacturing protocols, with batch-level QC, raw material validation, and pre-shipment product testing. Every product you receive has been fully tested for stability, solubility, pH, and active content.

6. Multilingual Sales & Technical Support Team

Our trained team speaks English, Spanish, Russian, French, and Arabic, ensuring smooth communication and after-sales technical support in your local language. We understand the specific needs of each regional market and offer you solutions, not just products.

Partner with POMAIS Today

Whether you are a regional distributor, a global agrochemical trader, or an agricultural brand owner seeking reliable supply of Ethephon-based plant growth regulators, POMAIS is ready to support your success. With a full range of high-purity formulations, customized packaging, and end-to-end OEM/ODM services, we help you deliver performance and value to your market.

Ready to expand your product line with Ethephon 2SL, 39 SL, 480 SL, or TC powder?
Need expert support for registration, labeling, or formulation compatibility?
Looking for a dependable partner with global experience and stable supply?

Let’s start the conversation today. Contact our expert team for quotations, documentation, or sample requests. We’ll provide fast responses, technical guidance, and full support from factory to field.

POMAIS – Your Trusted Ethephon Manufacturer and Agrochemical Partner.