PRE-AND POSTHARVESTING CA-TREATMENT OF PLUMS (PRUNUS DOMESTICA L.)

Abstract

Experiments with calcium (Stopit®) preharvest sprays and postharvest dipping in different calcium solutions were performed with plums of the Norwegian-grown cultivars Opal, Victoria and Jubileum. Both pre- and postharvest treatments reduced decay. Soluble solids and firmness were not significantly affected by preharvest calcium treatments. Plum fruits picked with stems and in dry weather conditions were less susceptible to fungal decay than fruits picked without stems and in wet conditions. Postharvest dipping in hot water reduced decay without affecting fruit quality. Fungal decay was primarily caused by Monilinia spp.