Monsanto is working on a form of temporary genetic modification ( GM ) that could see the life of cut flowers extended . Many critics of the flower industry cite the short life - span of GM as one of the sector ’s high environmental costs . The new process is part of Monsanto ’s wider efforts to create a form of GM that can be applied through a plant or via roots . The program is called BioDirect, and it makes use of genetic molecules called RNA to interfere with certain genes within the plants to create a desired effect without it being permanent. The BioDirect programme uses genetic molecules called RNA to induce a temporary mutation with specific genes within the plants . The new development would prevent the production of ethylene which causes flowers to age and rot . The company has submitted a patent application for the technology , which may also have applications in agriculture for developing bug killing sprays .
Monsanto is working on a form of temporary genetic modification ( GM ) that could see the life of cut flowers extended . Many critics of the flower industry cite the short life - span of GM as one of the sector ’s high environmental costs . The new process is part of Monsanto ’s wider efforts to create a form of GM that can be applied through a plant or via roots . The BioDirect programme uses genetic molecules called RNA to induce a temporary mutation with specific genes within the plants . The new development would prevent the production of ethylene which causes flowers to age and rot . The company has submitted a patent application for the technology , which may also have applications in agriculture for developing bug killing sprays .