Which symptoms indicate that flowers may be affected by ethylene gas?

The presence of ethylene gas affects floral health significantly and can lead to several symptoms that indicate its impact. Yellowing foliage is a common visual cue where chlorophyll degradation occurs, leading to leaves losing their vibrant green color. This symptom often signifies stress in the plant, which can be exacerbated by exposure to ethylene.

Premature death is another critical sign that flowers are responding adversely to ethylene. Flowers are sensitive to ethylene, which can accelerate the aging process, leading to wilting, drop of petals, and ultimately, the death of the flower before its natural lifespan.

When combining both yellowing foliage and premature death, it becomes evident that ethylene gas is affecting the plant in multiple ways. Flowers exposed to ethylene will likely show both symptoms, as they indicate the physiological effects of this gas on floral development and longevity. Thus, recognizing these symptoms can help florists and caretakers mitigate damage and extend the life of cut flowers or garden plants.