Effects of pre-harvest and post-harvest applications of gibberellin (GA3) on appearance quality of ‘Guifei’ mangoes

Abstract

The effects of pre-harvest and post-harvest applications of gibberellin (GA3) at different concentrations of 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 g L(‑1) on appearance quality of ‘Guifei’ mango were investigated. The results showed that: (1) When application with GA3 during pre-harvest, lower GA3 treatments could delay the change of a* value, inhibit degradation of chlorophyll and the accumulation of carotenoid and anthocyanin, and decrease the activities of chlorophyllase (Chlase) and chalcone isomerase (CHI). However, higher concentration (>1.0 g L(‑1)) treatment could result in incomplete change in peel color until ripening. (2) When application with GA3 during post-harvest, the degradation of chlorophyll, the synthesis of anthocyanin and carotenoid, and the change of peel color were retarded greatly by GA3 treatment. Thus, the higher concentration (>2.0 g L(‑1)) could make mangoes not turning color completely at the end of storage period. Therefore, it is suggested that unsuitable GA3 concentration applied during pre-harvest (>1.0 g L(‑1)) or post-harvest (>2.0 g L(‑1)) had a negative influence on the appearance quality of ‘Guifei’ mangos.