Journal of Horticulture and Postharvest Research

Abstract Purpose: Lily is one of the most economically ornamental plants and tissue culture plays a vital role in accelerating mass propagation of lily. In lily tissue culture, the production of bigger bulblets is highly desirable. The objective of the present investigation is to examine the impact of gibberellin on the in vitro growth of lily bulblets, administered at two distinct time intervals. Research method: In the present investigation, various concentrations of gibberellins (0, 0.1, and 1 µM) were employed at two distinct time points: the commencement of the culture period and the fifth week of culture period. After 11 weeks the fresh weight of bulblets, the number of bulblets, the fresh weight of leaves, the fresh weight of roots and the fresh weight of scale explant were scored and analyzed. Findings: The application of 1 µM gibberellin during bulblet induction yielded noteworthy outcomes, including a substantial 91% increase in the fresh weight of the bulblets, a significant 38% augmentation in the fresh weight of the leaves, as well as a 40% increase in the fresh weight of the roots. Research limitations: The quantification of endogenous phytohormones in lily scale explants was deemed unfeasible. Originality/value: The development of lily bulblets experienced a notable enhancement while the medium was supplemented with gibberellin in bulblet induction stage.

Abstract Purpose: This study investigated the effectiveness of tragacanth gum (TG) coatings integrated with peppermint oil (PO) in controlling pathogenic fungi in banana fruits. Research Method: The research specifically evaluated the in-vitro and in-vivo responses of these coating agents on fungal pathogens and assessed their impact on peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities in banana fruits. Findings: The study revealed that tragacanth gum integrated with peppermint oil (TGPO) effectively inhibited the growth of Colletotrichum musae and Aspergillus fumigatus in bananas. TGPO-treated fruits exhibited significantly lower disease incidence (32.67±1.00 % for C. musae and 28±1.00 % for A. fumigatus) and severity compared to the controls after 14 days. The treatment also maintained higher catalase and peroxidase enzymatic activities, indicating enhanced disease resistance. Furthermore, TGPO-treated bananas retained better quality parameters during the 15-day storage period, including optimal pH levels, lower total soluble solids, reduced water activity, greater firmness, and decreased electrical conductivity. Research limitations: No limitations were identified during the course of carrying out this study. Originality/Value: The originality and value of this work lie in being the first study to investigate TGPO as a natural preservative coating for bananas. While previous research has examined various edible coatings and essential oils separately, this study uniquely demonstrates how integrating tragacanth gum and peppermint oil creates an effective, eco-friendly solution for extending banana shelf life by controlling fungal pathogens (particularly C. musae and A. fumigatus) while maintaining fruit quality. This novel approach addresses growing consumer demand for natural food preservation methods while potentially reducing post-harvest losses in the banana industry.

Abstract Purpose: Nitrogen (N) plays a crucial role in citrus growth, but its deficiency or excess can disrupt nutrient balance and physiological functions in plant. This study investigated how varying N levels (2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 mM) affect growth, photosynthesis, root morphology and nutrient interactions in sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) seedlings. Research Method: Seedlings were grown in nutrient solutions with different N concentrations. Biomass, photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm, PI), chlorophyll content, nutrient uptake, and nitrate reductase activity were analyzed. Findings: Maximum and significant plant dry weight (4.95 g), root length (51.5 cm), chlorophyll content (8.6 mg g⁻¹ FW), and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm = 0.73; PI = 4.2) occurred at 16 mM N compared to 2 mM N. In contrast, N deficiency (2–8 mM) reduced growth and photosynthetic performance, while N toxicity (32 mM) decreased plant biomass by 50%, impaired chlorophyll synthesis, and disrupted photosystem II efficiency (Fv/Fm = 0.55). Excessive N (32 mM) altered nutrient homeostasis, increasing root Ca and K concentration by 0.82% and 2.49% respectively but reducing their translocation to shoots, elevating the Ca/K ratio a key indicator of K deficiency risk in calcareous soils. Nitrate reductase activity declined under toxicity, reflecting suppressed N assimilation. Root N/Ca ratio decreased with increasing in N concentration and Ca/K ratio of root in N₁₆ and N₃₂ treatments was higher than that in other N treatments. Phenolic compounds accumulated in roots under high N, suggesting oxidative stress mitigation. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: Excessive N disrupts nutrient balance, photosynthetic inhibition, and growth suppression while 16 mM N optimizes sour orange growth.

Abstract Purpose: A study was carried out to investigate the influence of different fruit development stages on the physicochemical attributes, total phenolics, and antioxidant activity of two Iranian melon varieties for optimal harvest time. Research method: The research was conducted two times i.e. in 2023 and in 2024. It was a factorial experiment in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. The factors were developmental stage harvest (three stages, viz., 30, 40, and 50 days after fruit set) and variety (two varieties, viz., ‘Chaghercheh’ and ‘Zamcheh’). Findings: There were significant differences among the different harvest times in all parameters evaluated for both varieties. The fresh weight and related dimensions, and thickness and percentage of pulp of the fruits increased throughout the developmental stages, while fruit firmness, peel thickness, percentages of peel and seed showed a descending trend in the same period. At 50 days after fruit set, both melon varieties exhibited high levels of total soluble solids and pH, but low titratable acidity, resulting in high maturity index. As the fruits developed and matured, levels of ascorbic acid, total phenolics, and antioxidant activity reduced dramatically in both varieties. Also, statistically significant differences were detected between the two melon varieties in all factors measured. The antioxidant activity positively correlated with total phenolics (r = 0.910) and ascorbic acid (r = 0.891). Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: Overall, the data of this research revealed that the degree of maturity and the variety are main parameters controlling the physicochemical characteristics, total phenolics, and antioxidant activity of melon. Also, the study provides basis for optimal harvest time for ‘Chaghercheh’ and ‘Zamcheh’ melon varieties.

Abstract Purpose: Citrus is one of the most significant fruit crops in the world, and there are huge amounts of citrus in Egypt, especially orange. Shortage of water resources is the main challenge for citrus production, therefore, proper management of water resources for orange orchards is essential in Egypt. Research Method: The current study’s objective was to calculate the water footprint components of orange production in four governorates (Beheira, Gharbia, Menoufia, and Sharqiya) during 2020-2023. Findings: Data indicated that different irrigation rates affected tree growth, tree yield, total yield, yield efficiency, and fruit quality. Results showed that trees grown in the Salhyia area recorded the highest values of canopy ratio increment (42.21%), N leaf content (2.46%), yield efficiency (5.92 kg/m3), tree yield (132.00 kg/tree), total yield (52.80 tons/ha), TSS/TA ratio value (11.75), and the lowest acidity value (0.99 %). The highest values of leaf K content (1.76%), and vitamin C (42.83) were recorded in Al Mahalla El Kubra region, while the highest P leaf content (0.314%) was observed in Ashmoun district. Data showed that water use efficiency was lower in surface irrigation with a value of 3.71 kg orange/m³ water and higher in drip irrigation with a value of 3.81 kg orange/m³ water. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Regarding water footprint components, data revealed that the drip irrigation system had lower green, grey and total water footprint values than surface irrigation. In contrast, the blue water footprint was the height under the drip irrigation system rather than the surface irrigation system.

Abstract Purpose: Climatic circumstances are significant determinants in the formation and growth of the vine. Due to variations in climatic parameters, high-temperature affects phenology, the ripening period, and physicochemical characteristics are detrimental to the quality of the grapes produced and gradually decrease the yield. Research method: This investigation studies the effect of heat units on the yield and fruit quality of some grape cultivars in different regions of Egypt. This trial evaluates two grape cultivars (Flame Seedless and Crimson Seedless) grown in three distinct locations (El-Behira, El-Menoufia, and El-Minia governorates) during seasons (2021 and 2022). Findings: Heat units negatively affect the phenological dates of the grape growth cycle. However, the warmer regions (El-Minia governorate) accelerated various phases or stages in the phenological development of grapevines, including bud burst, full flowering, fruit set, veraison, and grape maturity as compared to the moderate regions (El-Behira and El-Menoufia governorates). Regarding yield and its attributes, the moderate regions (El-Behira and El-Menoufia governorates) had the highest yield. They improved the bunch physiochemical attributes of Flame Seedless and Crimson Seedless grapes compared to the warmer region (El-Minia governorate). Research limitations: There were no limits. Originality/Value: Heat units negatively affect the phenological stages of grape growth (bud break, full flowering, fruit set, veraison, and grape maturity) and physicochemical characteristics.

Abstract Purpose: Salinity stress is one of the most important limiting factors affecting all plant processes, from seed germination to seedling development and plant growth. Seed priming is the most promising seed technique which quickens the germination process and enhances stand establishment. Therefore, seed priming with allantoin and serotonin was performed to investigate their effects on germination and growth of bitter melon seeds under salt. Research method: The experiment was conducted as a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with three replications. The first factor consisted of three concentrations of salinity (0, 50 and 100 mM NaCl) and the second factor included seed priming (48 h) with modulators: control (distilled water), allantoin (1000 μM), serotonin (100 µM) and allantoin + serotonin. After 48 h of applying the priming treatments, the seeds were dried and placed in 9 cm diameter petri dishes lined with filter paper, moistened with the prepared salt solutions, and allowed to germinate at 25 °C. Germination percentage, seed vigor and selected growth characteristics including length, fresh and dry weight of seedling, shoot and root of bitter melon were evaluated. Findings: The results revealed that seed germination and seedling growth of bitter melon decreased in line with increasing salt concentrations: on the other hand, seed priming with allantoin (1000 μM) and serotonin (100 µM) alleviated this negative effect of salt stress. It was concluded that allantoin and serotonin, as seed priming agents, positively influenced bitter melon germination under salt stress. These findings may also be applicable to other plants and probably the observed stress tolerance might occur throughout the plant growth period. Research limitations: No limitations were identified. Originality/Value: Given the medicinal value of bitter melon, solving its germination problem, especially under salt stress conditions, will be of great help to those interested in cultivating this plant.

Abstract Purpose: Pomegranate is of considerable economic significance, with Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat serving as the primary cultivation regions. Despite the high production levels, postharvest losses are serious, with certain fruits experiencing fruit cracking, fungal infections, and poor handling during transportation, resulting in postharvest losses of up to 35%. For controlling postharvest infections in a variety of fruits and vegetables, synthetic fungicides are incredibly effective. Research Method: VeSolution is a GRAS salt-based formulation with antimicrobial properties developed to assess its efficacy in minimizing fruit rotting. Therefore, the present investigation examined the effectiveness of VeSolution in reducing these postharvest losses. The infected fruits were used to isolate and identify fungal pathogens. Subsequently, the antifungal efficacy of the VeSolution formulation was assessed by both in vitro and in vivo methodologies. The in vitro investigations entailed evaluating the formulation's inhibitory effects on mycelial growth of identified fungal pathogens on PDA plates. In the in vivo evaluation, artificially inoculated pomegranate fruits were subjected to VeSolution treatment to test their effectiveness in mitigating rot advancement. Finally, VeSolution-treated pomegranates were exposed to supply chain conditions to assess their practical efficacy. Critical parameters, including rot advancement, in-transit spoiling, and fruit quality were assessed. Findings: Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., and Coinella sp. were identified as fungi associated with pomegranate fruit rotting. The results indicated that the growth of the fungal colony was substantially inhibited by the 2% and 5% concentrations of VeSolution. The fruit rot development and progression were effectively restricted by the 2% VeSolution, as confirmed by in vivo assessments. Subsequent pilot and large-scale trials demonstrated that 1% VeSolution substantially reduced rot during longer (> 24 h) transportation periods. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: These results emphasise VeSolution as a viable and non-toxic alternative to conventional synthetic fungicides for maintaining the postharvest quality of pomegranates.

Abstract Purpose: Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.)  is a tropical fruit of significant economic importance worldwide. The cultivation of this crop is influenced by various factors, including the growth media, which directly affect plant growth, yield, and fruit quality. Therefore, selecting the appropriate growth medium is crucial for achieving optimal pineapple production. Research method: This study was conducted over four years and evaluated five growing medium treatments: 1) a control consisting of field soil, sand, and animal manure; 2) peat moss and perlite; 3) peat moss, perlite, and sand; 4) cocopeat and perlite; and 5) cocopeat, perlite, and sand. Each treatment was replicated three times, with six pots per replicate, arranged in a randomized complete block design under a shade system with drip irrigation in Chabahar, located in Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iran. Findings: The results indicated that the cocopeat, perlite, and sand mixture significantly outperformed the other treatments in terms of vegetative growth and yield. The fruit weights with crown for the main plant and ratoon grown in this medium were 1208 and 851 g, respectively, with corresponding yields of 101,173 and 62,240 kg/ha, respectively. A combination of cocopeat, perlite, and sand has proven to be the optimal growth medium for pineapple cultivation. Research limitations: No limitations   were found. Originality/Value: This study demonstrated that this specific mixture significantly enhanced vegetative growth, fruit yield, and overall plant health compared with the other tested media. These results suggest that this growing medium can be effectively used for pineapple production in a controlled environment.

Abstract Purpose: Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) is one of the most popular and economically important cut flowers worldwide ranking the third after rose and chrysanthemum. The vase life of many carnation cultivars is short due to sensitivity to ethylene or other factors. This research was performed to study effect of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA 0.5, 0.75 and 1mM) on postharvest quality of tow famous carnation cultivars viz. Delphi (white) and Dob Pedro (Red). Research method: The experiment was conducted as completely randomized design (CRD) with five replications per treatment. Findings: The results indicated that all concentrations of GABA significantly prolonged the vase life in both cultivars. GABA decreased lipid peroxidation of petal tissue while increased the activity of some antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX). Polyphenoloxidase (PPO) activity was also decreased in GABA-treated cut flower. Interestingly, both cultivars responded similarly to GABA treatments.  The findings also revealed that GABA had antioxidant properties capable of increasing defense ability of the carnation cut flower. Meanwhile, the applied concentration is very critical and should be taken into account. Based on the present findings, the best treatment is GABA at 0.75 mM. Limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: The results of this research indicated that GABA had antioxidant properties capable of increasing defense ability of the carnation cut flower. It appears that the applied GABA operates through membrane conservation, increasing the activity of antioxidants enzymes and decreasing PPO activity.

Abstract Purpose: This study aimed to determine optimal storage conditions for preserving ten-year-old fresh Ngoc Linh ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv.), a highly valued medicinal plant grown in the Ngoc Linh mountain region of Vietnam. Effective postharvest storage methods are important to maintain Ngoc Linh ginseng’s quality and phytochemical integrity. Research Method: Ethylene production and respiration rates of Ngoc Linh ginseng were evaluated, followed by a preliminary investigation in the dry season to understand the impact of temperature on its quality and shelf life. Finally, subsequent experiments were implemented in both seasons to determine the optimal storage temperature. Findings: Ethylene production and respiration rates of the Ngoc Linh ginseng were consistently low in both the dry and rainy seasons. The ginseng experienced severe dehydration and fungal decay at room temperature, while storage at 0 °C led to chilling injuries. Higher temperatures of 10 °C and 15 °C accelerated the deterioration of the ginseng. In contrast, storage at 3 °C and 6 °C significantly extended the ginseng's shelf life. A follow-up experiment confirmed that 3 °C was the most effective for retaining freshness, skin brightness, visual sensory attributes, and total saponin content in Ngoc Linh ginseng in both seasons over 35 days. Research limitations: No limitations were identified. Originality/Value: This is the first study on extending the fresh storage of Ngoc Linh ginseng, a highly valuable herb of Vietnam. Identifying 3 °C as the optimal storage temperature provides a potential standard for fresh ginseng preservation and supports future research and commercial applications.

Abstract Purpose: Mango is a prominent fruit crop in Sri Lanka. Improper postharvest practices along the supply chain lead to high losses and low fruit quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adapting improved postharvest technologies in mango value chain in Sri Lanka on loss reduction and fruit quality improvement. Research method: Three mango supply chains; Maho to Colombo, Jafna to Colombo, and Malsiripura to Colombo were used for the study. Conventional mango supply chain (CSC) practices were compared with improved (ISC) practices at each supply chain actor. Total postharvest loss and physico-chemical parameters of mango were analyzed at each stage. Findings: Total weight loss of mango was significantly (p <0.05) lower in ISC (6.2 ± 0.8%) than CSC (39.6 ± 1.9%). Fruit firmness declined and TSS increased along both supply chains with significantly higher rate in CSC. Colour changed significantly within 48 hrs. The L* and a* value had decreased while b* value increased in both chains in peel and pulp. The CSC mangos were completely yellow while ISC mangos were green, at retailer stage. The postharvest life of fresh mango fruits was four days longer in ISC than CSC. Anthracnose and stem end rot were more prominent in CSC. Limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: The study reveals that improved practices reduces postharvest loss and increases shelf life of mango. It facilitates retaining pulp firmness, slow colour development, and achieve comparable TSS levels. Therefore, improved postharvest handling practices should be promoted among all supply chain actors.

Abstract Purpose: The microbial load and nutritional value of products have always been important issues in human nutrition. This research aimed to identify and determine the microbial levels and total antioxidant contents of dry, seedless barberry fruits collected from different regions of South Khorasan Province, which is the main production area in Iran. Research Method: Fruit samples were prepared from four regions, including the Birjand region, Zirkoh region, Darmian region, and Qaen region. Chemical traits and microbial analysis were evaluated. The microbial load was determined and compared with the maximum limit (ML) standards. Findings: Microbiological analyses of fruits from the Birjand region, Zirkoh region, Darmian region and Qaen region revealed that, fortunately, E. coli bacteria were not found in any of the studied regions. However, the highest amounts of total aerobic bacteria (4.60 log₁₀ CFU.g^-1) and yeast/mold bacteria (4.17 log₁₀ CFU.g^-1) were obtained from fruits prepared from the Darmian region, which was higher than the standard defined by the Food and Drug Organization of Iran. The highest coliform level was related to the fruits of the Darmian region (1.69 log₁₀ CFU.g^-1) and the Qaen region (1.69 log₁₀ CFU.g^-1), which were lower than those of the MLs. Considering the standards defined with the MLs in Iran, the microbial load regulations in Iran exhibit a higher level of stringency than those in other nations do. Additionally, chemical analyses revealed that the highest amount of total soluble solids and the lowest pH of fruit juice were from the fruits of the Birjand region. The highest amount of titratable acidity and the highest antioxidant activity were related to the fruits of the Qaen region. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: The nutritional value of barberry fruit is the highest in the Qaen region, followed by the Birjand region. Although the pre- and postharvest stages can affect the microbial load of products, storage conditions during the drying period of seedless barberry fruits play a crucial role in determining the microbial load.

Abstract Purpose: Mango is a well-known fruit in tropical and sub-tropical countries, including Bangladesh. However, mangoes are climacteric fruits and exhibit limited storage life due to a high respiration rate. Mangoes are also susceptible to particular storage pathogens at postharvest and thus possess a short shelf life. Research Method: Mature mangoes were treated with different concentrations of chitin nanofiber (CNF) and stored in ambient conditions to evaluate the effect of CNF (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%) on postharvest quality and shelf life. Disease-free and physiologically mature mangoes were collected from an orchard. The experiment was devised following a Completely Randomized Design with three replications, and each replication consisted of 10 fruits. Fruits were evaluated for physical quality (weight loss, fruit firmness, and color changes), chemical attributes [ changes in total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), vitamin C content], microbial (disease incidence and disease severity), and shelf life. Findings: The application of 0.3% CNF maintains fruit color (6.33 vs. 4), decreases disease incidence (62.5% vs. 100%) and prolongs the shelf life (8.5 days vs. 6.02 days) of mangoes than the control. Similarly, 0.1% of CNF retains vitamin C (24.33 mg/100g vs. 12.33 mg/100g), decreases disease severity (62% vs. 85.68%), and 0.5% of CNF reduces weight loss (19.34% vs. 31.4%) than the control. Research Limitations: CNF preparation requires lab facilities and technical expertise, and it is costly. Originality/Value: CNF 0.3% has the potential to maintain postharvest quality and extend the shelf life of mangoes. However, more research is needed to make the final recommendation at the farmers’ level.

Abstract Purpose: Tocopherols (vitamin E) are important bioactive components in some fruits, possessing potent antioxidant activity and exerting a significant influence on metabolic pathways, human nutrition, and health. However, the content of tocopherols in apple fruit peels and pulp has scarcely been investigated. Research method: Fruits of eight apple cultivars were evaluated for color, total soluble solids (TSS), and tocopherols from both the pulp and peels were extracted and analyzed. Findings: The content of a-tocopherol (0.073–0.656 and 0.01–0.02 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) in the peel and pulp, respectively) was higher than that d-tocopherol (0.002–0.01 and 0.0001–0.0014 mg 100 g FW in the peel and pulp, respectively), and both tocopherols were higher in the peels than in the pulp. The content of a-tocopherol followed the order: ‘Braeburn’ > ‘Golden Delicious’ > ‘Rome’ > ‘Red Delicious’ and ‘Royal Gala’ > ‘Jonagold’ > ‘Fuji’ > ‘Granny Smith’. Low levels of d-tocopherol were detected in the peels. ‘Granny Smith’ apples had the highest d-tocopherol content in the peel (0.01 mg 100 g FW), whereas ‘Rome Beauty’, ‘Royal Gala’ and ‘Fuji’ apples exhibited the lowest levels (0.002 mg 100 g FW).  Research limitations: There were no limitations identified. Originality/Value: Our results indicate that tocopherols content in apple peels and pulp is relatively low compared to other types of fruits rich in vitamin E. However, regular consumption of whole apples may contribute to daily vitamin E intake and help prevent the oxidation of lipophilic biomolecules.

Abstract Purpose: Floral preservative vase solutions commonly use citric acid to reduce the pH of water, thereby extending the vase life of cut flowers. This study was conducted to explore the potential of hydrating solutions in extending the vase life of roses and reducing the production of ethylene. Research Method: Cut roses were used to evaluate the efficacy of hydrating solutions (calamondin juice, cinnamon and garlic powder extracts and bamboo wood vinegar) and stem cutting every two days to increase the vase life and slow down changes in the visual quality parameters when added in vase solution. Findings: Cut roses subjected to calamondin extract (20 ml/L) had a statistically longer vase life of 11.67 days (37.29% higher than the control), followed by bamboo wood vinegar (9.67 days or 13.76%), while untreated samples had 8.50 days (p value = 0.000). Roses treated with cinnamon powder and ginger extract attained limit of fitness for decoration at Day 8. During the peak of ripening at day 7, calamondin treatments reduced the ethylene concentration by 10.60% and resulted in the highest carbon dioxide (0.87% vol), which was statistically different from the other treatments. Research limitations: No limitations were identified in the study. Originality/Value: The study demonstrated that the addition of calamondin extract significantly slows down deteriorative changes in cut flowers. Given the economic feasibility and widespread availability of calamondin fruits in local markets, this postharvest treatment presents a practical and cost-effective option for flower vendors.