The Effect of 2-Chloroethylphosphonic Acid (Ethephon) on Maturation of a Processing Peach1

Ethephon applications at 250 to 1500 ppm rates during final swell of ‘Babygold-9’, a clingstone peach, accelerated maturation as measured by firmness and skin and flesh color changes and reduced titratable acidity. High rates were phytotoxic and detrimental to fruit quality. Increased immature fruit abscission appears to limit the practical use of ethephon at this growth stage in peach.