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Melon: quality and resistance after harvest.

Melon : qualité et tenue après récolte.

Author(s) : WESTERCAMP P., LAVIGNE D.

Type of article: Article

Summary

To preserve the quality of melon until it reaches the consumer, certain precautions are necessary right from the time of harvest: carefully pick fruit having reached the optimum stage of ripeness at the coolest times of the day, and protect it for prompt delivery to the packing station. Chilling slows the ripening of the fruit but a sudden temperature change tends to aggravate the development of brown spots on the outer skin. A temperature range of 10-12 deg C is sufficient to store the fruit for 2 to 3 days. Among crop management factors, excess nitrogen, notably when applied at a late stage, tends to lower the fruits' resistance after harvest. An acute water deficit is detrimental to the internal quality of the fruit. Finally, techniques such as application of a wax coating appear to extend the longevity of melon and help preserve its appearance and gustatory qualities.

Details

  • Original title: Melon : qualité et tenue après récolte.
  • Record ID : 1999-2344
  • Languages: French
  • Source: Infos Ctifl - n. 142
  • Publication date: 1998/06
  • Document available for consultation in the library of the IIR headquarters only.

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