QQ.1.. Write about the Post Harvest Management of Peach and Plum.
- Peaches/plums are climacteric, delicate fruits requiring careful post-harvest handling.
- Rapid pre-cooling (0-2°C) immediately after harvest is essential to slow ripening and spoilage.
- Optimal storage: 0-2°C temperature, 90-95% relative humidity for 2-4 weeks shelf life.
- Chilling injury (internal breakdown, woolliness) is a major issue below 7.5°C; prevented by intermittent warming.
Answer: Post-harvest management is crucial for peaches and plums, both being highly perishable climacteric fruits. Effective handling from harvest to consumption is essential to minimize losses, maintain quality, and extend their marketability. This involves a sequence of carefully controlled steps aimed at slowing down metabolic processes and preventing physical damage and microbial spoilage. **1. Harvesting and Maturity Indices** Peaches and plums are typically harvested at physiological maturity b...