What does ethylene commonly affect in cut flowers?

Ethylene is a crucial plant hormone that plays a significant role in the maturation process of flowers and fruits. In cut flowers, ethylene influences several physiological responses that typically relate to maturation and senescence (the aging process). When cut flowers are exposed to ethylene, they may mature faster, leading to a more rapid aging of the petals, which can cause wilting and a decrease in their vase life.

This hormone is known to trigger the opening of blooms, which can seem desirable, but it often accelerates the overall decay and decline of the flowers. The presence of ethylene can lead to premature flower drop and diminished quality, which is why florists and those handling cut flowers work to minimize ethylene exposure to preserve the flowers' fresh appearance for as long as possible.

In contrast, while water absorption, color retention, and height growth are important factors in the life of cut flowers, they are not as directly influenced by ethylene as maturation is. Water absorption primarily depends on the plant's vascular system, color retention is more about pigments and surface conditions, and height growth is related to overall plant development rather than the effects of ethylene on cut flowers. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the significant impact ethylene has on the maturation process of cut