Preharvest 1-methylcyclopropene treatment reduces soft scald in 'Honeycrisp' apples during storage.

摘要

Effectiveness of preharvest 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment on the development of soft scald in Honeycrisp apples was investigated. In addition, effects of preharvest 1-MCP on fruit quality at harvest and after storage were examined. For 2 consecutive yr of study, Honeycrisp trees were sprayed preharvest with 1-MCP and fruit were harvested twice during each yr. Preharvest 1-MCP treatments had little consistent effect on fruit maturity at the time of harvest. In both yr of study, preharvest 1-MCP reduced incidence of soft scald in Honeycrisp apples after air storage at 0 or 3 degrees C for 5 or 6 months. Soggy breakdown developed only in the second yr of study and high incidences were reduced by preharvest 1-MCP treatments. Preharvest 1-MCP often reduced flesh firmness loss in Honeycrisp during storage, especially during the second yr of study, and with 1-MCP application closer to harvest. Malic acid content was often higher in apples with the preharvest 1-MCP spray closer to harvest. Overall, the most important benefit of preharvest 1-MCP treatments on Honeycrisp apples was the reduction in soft scald development. Due to the high potential for substantial fruit losses from this disorder, it is suggested that use of preharvest 1-MCP sprays on Honeycrisp apples could be very advantageous.