Abstract: To preserve flowers (6) and provide aromatherapy, low temperature paraffin (1) is heated (2) to a liquid state of approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit. A floral nutrient and preservative (3) such as a saccharide such as sugar is then added to the low temperature paraffin (1). Optionally, scents (4) and/or color dyes (5) are also added. The heads of flowers (6) to be preserved are then dipped (7) in this paraffin mixture for one to three seconds and thereafter allowed to dry. The flower (6) can then be used immediately, or optionally hung (8) upside down for one to three weeks prior to use to further improved shelf life. The flower (6) can further be sprayed with a floral spray paint (9).

Abstract: A method of dispersing an insoluble material in an aqueous solution comprising the following steps: (i) providing a formulation comprising at least one insoluble material and at least one dispersant comprising a water soluble agriculturally acceptable derivative of an alternating copolymer or an agriculturally acceptable salt thereof wherein said alternating copolymer comprises at least one residue of a first comonomer and at least one residue of a second comonomer, wherein said first comonomer comprises ??-unsaturated oxyacids or anhydrides and said second comonomer comprises olefinic compounds containing one or more polymerizable double bonds; and (ii) dispersing said formulation in an aqueous medium.

Abstract: The invention relates to a preservative with reduced formaldehyde emission which comprises

Abstract: A method of dyeing and treating a substrate using a water-stabilized organosilane. A method of antimicrobially treating a food article. A method of antimicrobially coating a fluid container. A method of antimicrobially coating a latex medical article.

Abstract: Composition and method for enhancing the moisture content of growing and cut trees and plants, including the steps of providing a polyacrylimide polymer in crystalline form, mixing salt with the polymer wherein the salt comprises about 5% by weight relative to the polymer, treating the mixture in a reaction tube for about 60 seconds, and applying the mixture to the tree or plant to enhance the ability thereof to absorb and retain moisture.

Abstract: A method for control of insects on plant tissue which includes applying a solution tht includes hydrogen peroxide to the plant tissue. The hydrogen peroxide solution has a concentration of between 0.05 to 3.00%. In some cases the hydrogen peroxide solution has a concentration of between 0.05 and 1.5%. Some forms of the invention may utilize a hydrogen peroxide solution that further includes an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid and phosphoric acid. Various structures are used for applying the hydrogen peroxide solution such as hydraulic spraying, misting, fogging, or injecting the hydrogen peroxide into a commercial cooling system. In some cases the hydrogen peroxide solution is applied to the plant tissue at a variety of stages in the plant production cycle. Other application of the invention include applying misting the hydrogen peroxide solution over terminal stem cuttings until they reach root sufficiency.

Abstract: Method for extending the life of cut flowers such as roses by bathing the stems of the flowers in a storage solution which contains chlorine dioxide. Also disclosed are compositions for use in the method.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions for controlling plant and flower moisture transpiration and thereby extending the period of time in which cut flowers can be displayed before senescence produces a flower which has exceeded its aesthetic value. The compositions of the present invention comprise: a) from about 0.

Abstract: A method for maintaining the freshness of a cut flower is disclosed. The method comprises the step of causing a flowering plant to imbibe an aqueous solution of a composition for maintaining the freshness of flower which comprises a mixture or a reaction product of a silver compound and an organic compound having a functional group capable of forming a water-soluble complex with a silver ion through the sulfur atom thereof to a flowering plant.

Abstract: A method for making a natural botanical sculpture that captures the plant's form and beauty is provided. A plant or plant part is used as an armature in the creation of a durable representation of the plant. The outer surface of the organic material is plastered with a viscous paste composition that includes composed of an adhesive, a synthetic latex resin prepared by emulsion polymerization, and a thickener. The paste dries to produce an inflexible and air-tight encasement. The plant is permanently preserved within the encasement.

Abstract: The present invention is a treatment method for preserving cut flowers, which has a dehydration process for removing the tissue water of cut flowers using a solvent, and a permeation process for letting polyethylene glycol permeate after dehydration, to substitute the solvent by polyethylene glycol, characterized in that the dehydration process is effected while the cut flowers are fixed in a container having a proper amount of a molecular sieve spread over its bottom and filled with a solvent having a specific gravity smaller than that of water, wherein the specific gravity of the solvent is measured to monitor the change of the solvent in dehydratability, and the time when the specific gravity suddenly rises is detected as the time for exchanging the molecular sieve for a new one, to restore the dehydratability of the solvent, thereby allowing the solvent to be used continuously and allowing the dehydration process to be continued without waste of time.

Abstract: Methods of applying C5-20 cyclopropene derivatives and compositions thereof to block ethylene receptors in plants are disclosed. One such method comprises applying to the plant an effective ethylene response-inhibiting amount of cyclopropene derivatives or compositions thereof. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting abscission in plants, methods of prolonging the life of cut flowers, methods of inhibiting ripening of picked fruits, and methods of inhibiting ripening of picked vegetables.

Abstract: A freshness-retaining agent for an agricultural or horticultural product comprises an organic acid and a hydrgencarbonate. The organic acid may preferably be an organic acid which in the presence of water given off from the agricultural or horticultural product, reacts with the hydrogencarbonate such that carbon dioxide gas is gradually generated, for example, cinnamic acid, benzoic acid or citric acid or a derivative thereof. The hydrgencarbonate may preferably be sodium hydrogencarbonate. The freshness of the agricultural or horticultural product can be retained by causing the freshness-retaining agent to exist in the same atmosphere as the agricultural or horticultural product such that the freshness-retaining agent is allowed to gradually generate carbon dioxide gas in the presence of water given off from the agricultural or horticultural product.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for controlling plant and flower moisture transpiration rates and thereby providing a system for extending the time in which plants and cut flowers can be utilized in aesthetic displays or floral arrangements. The present invention is achieved by controlling the intake of water and nutrients by a cut flower. The first component of the systems of the present invention provide a control over the loss of water by the plant through transpiration. The second component of the systems of the present invention provide a source of energy and water to the cut flower while controlling the growth of microbes and the calcium ion flux produced by the plant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for creating, manipulating, modifying and enhancing floral scent component to plants and cut flowers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions for controlling plant and flower moisture transpiration and thereby extending the period of time in which cut flowers can be displayed before senescence produces a flower which has exceeded its aesthetic value.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the regulation of plant physiology, in particular to methods for inhibiting the ethylene response in plants or plant products, and has three embodiments. The first embodiment relates to methods of minimizing impurities capable of reversibly binding to plant ethylene receptor sites during the synthesis of cyclopropene and its derivatives such as methylcyclopropene, thereby avoiding the negative effects these impurities have on plants treated with cyclopropene and its derivatives. The second embodiment relates to complexes formed from molecular encapsulation agents such as cyclodextrin, and cyclopropene and its derivatives such as methylcyclopropene, in addition to cyclopentadiene and diazocyclopentadiene and their derivatives, thereby providing a convenient means for storing and transporting these compounds capable of inhibiting the ethylene response in plants, which are reactive gases and highly unstable because of oxidation and other potential reactions.

Abstract: Methods of applying cyclopropene derivatives and compositions thereof to block ethylene receptors in plants are disclosed. One such method comprises applying to the plant an effective ethylene response-inhibiting amount of cyclopropene derivatives or compositions thereof. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting abscission in plants, methods of prolonging the life of cut flowers, methods of inhibiting ripening of picked fruits, and methods of inhibiting ripening of picked vegetables.

Abstract: A method for preserving a fresh flower includes coating the flower with beeswax and applying a protective sealant of natural lacquer over the beeswax. Dye and/or fragrance may be added to the beeswax. The preserved flower produced therefrom includes a first beeswax coating and a second protective sealant coating. The fresh flowers so preserved substantially retain their original appearance and fragrance.

Abstract: To preserve flowers and provide aromatherapy, low temperature paraffin is heated to a liquid state of approximately 130 degrees Fahrenheit. A floral nutrient and preservative such as sugar is then added to the low temperature paraffin. Optionally, scents and/or color dyes are also added. The heads of flowers to be preserved are then dipped in this paraffin mixture for one to three seconds and thereafter allowed to dry. The flower can then be used immediately, or optionally hung upside down for one to three weeks prior to use to further improve shelf life.

Abstract: Both a process and a method of using peracid compositions, especially mixed peracid systems, to treat field or greenhouse grown plant tissue, seeds, fruits, and growing media and containers. The peracid can lower the natural, plant pathogen and human pathogenic microbial load resulting in less waste to molding, spoilage, and destruction because of pathogenic poisons.

Abstract: Methods of applying C6-20 alkyl cyclopropene derivatives and compositions thereof to block ethylene receptors in plants are disclosed. One such method comprises applying to the plant an effective ethylene response-inhibiting amount of cyclopropene derivatives or compositions thereof. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting abscission in plants and methods of prolonging the life of cut flowers.

Abstract: Both a process and a method of using peracid compositions, especially mixed peracid systems, to treat field or greenhouse grown plant tissue, seeds, fruits, and growing media and containers. The peracid can lower the natural, plant pathogen and human pathogenic microbial load resulting in less waste to molding, spoilage, and destruction because of pathogenic poisons.

Abstract: Composition and method for enhancing the moisture content of growing and cut trees and plants, including the steps of providing a polyacrylimide polymer in crystalline form, mixing salt with the polymer wherein the salt comprises about 5% by weight relative to the polymer, treating the mixture in a reaction tube for about 60 seconds, and applying the mixture to the tree or plant to enhance the ability thereof to absorb and retain moisture.

Abstract: The composition formed by mixing an organosilane with an ether. Water-stabilized organosilane compounds. A water stable composition made from the ether and organosilane composition and water. A method of treating a substrate by mixing or contacting the substrate with the product, compound, or composition of this invention for a period of time sufficient for treatment of the substrate. A treated substrate having adhered thereto the product, compound, or composition of this invention. A method of dyeing and treating a substrate. A method of antimicrobially treating a food article. A method of antimicrobially coating a fluid container. A method of antimicrobially coating a latex medical article.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the regulation of plant physiology, in particular to methods for inhibiting the ethylene response in plants or plant products, and has three embodiments. The first embodiment relates to methods of minimizing impurities capable of reversibly binding to plant ethylene receptor sites during the synthesis of cyclopropene and its derivatives such as methylcyclopropene, thereby avoiding the negative effects these impurities have on plants treated with cyclopropene and its derivatives. The second embodiment relates to complexes formed from molecular encapsulation agents such as cyclodextrin, and cyclopropene and its derivatives such as methylcyclopropene, in addition to cyclopentadiene and diazocyclopentadiene and their derivatives, thereby providing a convenient means for storing and transporting these compounds capable of inhibiting the ethylene response in plants, which are reactive gases and highly unstable because of oxidation and other potential reactions.

Abstract: A cut flower preservative slurry composition comprising a water insoluble or hardly soluble cut flower preservative component and a dispersing agent for dispersing the preservative component in water to form a slurry.

Abstract: A process for preserving cellular structures includes the steps of pre-treating the structures with an aqueous polymeric water solution, drying the structures and then post-treating the structures with an organic solvent, non-water-base solution. Once the structure has been treated with the pre-treatment solution, the specimen is allowed to sit for a predetermined period of time in order for the active ingredients of the solution to penetrate the surface area of the specimen. The specimen is then preferably freeze-dried. The solution may also be applied to the cellular material by drawing it systemically through the material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition capable of stimulating plant growth and to a method of preparing such a composition. Furthermore, a method of stimulating the growth of a plant such as a vegetable plant, sugar cane, a fruit tree, a tropical plant, or a grass by administering to the plant the composition under conditions such that the stimulation is effected is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for preserving dried flowers includes hanging flowers and floral greens by their stems, spraying them with a preservative solution in a relatively cool atmosphere, leaving them in the cool atmosphere for a selected length of time, and drying the sprayed flowers and greens in a relatively warm atmosphere. The preservative solution is a water solution of a common detergent at a concentration of about 0.25 to 1.0 per cent by weight and corn syrup at a concentration of about 20 to 33 per cent by weight.

Abstract: A sulfonylsemicarbazide derivative of the general formula (I) is effective as a preservative agent for preserving the freshness of a flower, which can prolong the vase life of the flower petals of cut flowers where the flowers can be enjoyed. ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 represents a (C.sub.3 -C.sub.4)-alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl group, a pyridyl group, a thio-phenyl group or others, R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, an alkoxalyl group, an alkoxyalkyl group, a group of the formula --C(X)--X--R.sup.4 where X means an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom and R.sup.4 means an alkyl group, or other, or R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 may form a heterocyclic ring having 4 to 5 carbon atoms or a group of the formula --N.dbd.CR.sup.5 (R.sup.6), as taken with the --N atom to which R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 are attached.

Abstract: A method for control of horticulture diseases and decontamination of plant tissue which includes applying a solution of hydrogen peroxide to plant tissue, said hydrogen peroxide being a solution having a concentration of between 0.05 to 3.00%. In some cases the hydrogen peroxide solution has a concentration of between 0.05 and 1.5%. Some forms of the invention may utilize a hydrogen peroxide solution that further includes an acid selected from the group consisting of acetic acid and phosphoric acid. Various structures are used for applying the hydrogen peroxide solution such as hydraulic spraying, misting, fogging, or injecting the hydrogen peroxide into a commercial cooling system. In other cases the hydrogen peroxide solution is injected into a recirculating subirrigation nutrient system solution to control microbial growth in the irrigation water. In some cases the hydrogen peroxide solution is applied to the plant tissue at a variety of stages in the plant production cycle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for maintaining the freshness and enhancing the fragrance of cut flowers. More specifically, the present invention relates to liquid compositions into which the stems of cut flowers can be immersed, thereby providing a medium for maintaining the freshness and enhancing the fragrance of the cut flowers, comprising at least one or more surfactant, at least one fragrance, at least one fragrance solvent, water, acetylsalicylic acid or acetylsalicylsalicylic acid, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and at least one antifoaming agent.

Abstract: Living plants, in particular coniferous and deciduous woody plants, are preserved by having them take up a preservation solution containing water, glycerin, a phosphate (e.g., calcium phosphate at 1.2-1.8 grams per liter of solution) and a biochemical energy source (e.g., sucrose at 4.0-8.0 grams per liter of solution). The preservation composition or solution provides for a gradual and complete preservation of the plant without the problem of chemicals "bleeding" from the leaves or incomplete preservation. The original texture, color, and odor of the plant is maintained. Additional dyes or coloration may be used in the preservation process.

Abstract: The sheet for retaining freshness of cut flowers, which is used in water in a flower-vase, consists of a laminate of a substrate, a life-prolonging agent layer for cut flowers and a protective layer. The life-prolonging agent layer mainly comprises at least one aluminum compound and is substantially water-soluble. It is preferred that the life-prolonging agent layer substantially comprises no binder.

Abstract: An agent for preserving the freshness of plants containing 2"-O-glucosylisovitexin as an effective ingredient is disclosed. This agent is excellent in an effect of preserving the freshness of cut flowers and potted plants, and, moreover, is safe and has no problem of the pollution of the environment.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting an ethylene response in a plant is disclosed herein. The method comprises applying to the plant an effective ethylene response-inhibiting amount of cyclopropene, 1.1.1. propellane, or derivatives thereof. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting abscission in plants and methods of prolonging the life of cut flowers.

Abstract: Alkene aldehyde sulfoxylates are more effective than their saturated aldehyde sulfoxylate counterparts as systemic pesticides for protecting plants.

Abstract: A method for reducing plant water loss by closing stomatal openings and reducing the transpiration rate. In particular, a water loss reducing composition made of an osmo-adjusting solute such as sorbitol or xylitol is applied to plants. The solution is applied to the root zone by drenching regularly or prior to water deficiency, and preferably includes between about 0.5 and about 25 weight percent of the water loss reducing and conditioning agent.

Abstract: Method for extending bloom life of a cut flower by bathing the flower in a solution which contains isoniazid. Also disclosed are compositions for use in the method.

Abstract: A refreshing agent comprising a compound having a hydrosilyl group and a hydrosilylation catalyst quickly adsorbs ethylene without forming hazardous substances and is thus suitable for keeping vegetables, fruits, and flowers fresh.

Abstract: The present invention includes a method of extending bloom life of a cut flower. In the method, a storage solution containing 5-deoxy-5-ethylthio-D-ribose (ETR) is provided, and the stem of the cut flower is bathed in the solution. ETR is safe for human use, and is effective at relatively low concentrations. A method for synthesizing 5-deoxy-5-alkylthioribose compounds is also disclosed.

Abstract: Long-life cut flowers characterized in that their tissue water is replaced with a substance, particularly polyethylene glycol (PEG), which is unsuited to the metabloism of saprophytic agents, and method of treating cut flowers to obtain these long-life flowers.

Abstract: Plant growth regulators comprising, as an active ingredient, a substituted dicarboxylic acid derivative having the formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, D and G are the same as defined in the present specification, the substituted dicarboxylic acid derivatives, and processes for preparing the same, are disclosed. The plant growth regulators provided according to the present invention have a regulating activity on plant growth; more specifically, an action thereof of lowering the content of endogenous ethylene in a plant is utilized.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a process for preventing chemical injuries to vegetables, fruits or flowers caused by methyl bromide, which comprises keeping the vegetables, fruits or flowers, which have been fumigated with methyl bromide, together with (A) an agent for eliminating methyl bromide comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of chloric acid, chlorous acid, hypochlorous acid, phosphoric acid, phosphorous acid, hypophosphorous acid and salts thereof and/or (B) an amine. According the present invention, the chemical injuries to vegetables, fruits or flowers caused by methyl bromide can be easily prevented.