Methods of applying C.sub.5-20 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.