Environmentally friendly processes for prevention of qualitative
deterioration and quantitative loss of plant matter and foodstuffs,
during all stages of storage and handling, including pre- and
post-harvest, pre- and post-planting, distribution and marketing involves
the use of H.sub.2O.sub.2 compositions including Ag and at least one of
Cu and Zn ions. The processes can also be used to prevent sprouting and
rooting, and to promote fecundity of certain plant matter, and can also
be used to eliminate or reduce quantities of harmful organisms and
substances from soil, other growth media and substrates, equipment,
materials water, workspaces and surfaces.