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 2 o 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 .