Which of the following is not a consequence of using ethephon ?

Options

A. Thinning of cotton
B. Hastened fruit ripening in tomatoes
C. Accelerated abscission
D. Promotion of male flowers in cucumbers

Answer

To solve the question of which of the following is not a consequence of using ethephon, we will analyze each option in relation to the effects of ethylene, the active component of ethephon.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Ethephon**:
- Ethephon is a plant growth regulator that releases ethylene when applied. Ethylene is a phytohormone that influences various physiological processes in plants.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A: Thinning of Cotton**:
- Ethylene is known to cause thinning in cotton plants. This is a consequence of using ethephon.
- **Option B: Harsened Fruit Ripening in Tomatoes**:
- Ethylene promotes fruit ripening in tomatoes. Therefore, this is also a consequence of using ethephon.
- **Option C: Accelerated Abscission**:
- Ethylene is involved in promoting the process of abscission (the shedding of leaves, flowers, or fruits). This is another consequence of using ethephon.
- **Option D: Promotion of Male Flowers in Cucumbers**:
- Ethylene is known to promote female flowers in cucumbers, not male flowers. Therefore, this option does not represent a consequence of using ethephon.

3. **Conclusion**:
- Since option D (promotion of male flowers in cucumbers) is not a consequence of using ethephon, it is the correct answer to the question.

### Final Answer:
**Option D: Promotion of male flowers in cucumbers** is not a consequence of using ethephon.