Journal of Horticulture and Postharvest Research

Abstract Purpose: Morphological screening of native grapevine genotypes is the fundamental step in vine breeding programs. In this study, selected morphological traits were to identify key traits and classify genotypes based on their morphological diversity. Research method: 22 grapevine cultivars and local genotypes from different vineyards in Ilam province were evaluated. A total of 33 morphological traits related to leaves and bunches were recorded based on the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) grape descriptor. Findings: The results revealed high coefficients of variation for traits such as skin color (88.58%), pedicel length (58.99%), pedicel weight (58.99%), rachis weight (57.71%), berry weight (56.16%), indicating substantial morphological diversity among grapevine plants. The highest yield per vine was observed in the genotype “GD3Chamanar” with 65 kg per vine. Significant positive and negative correlations were found among some traits. Principal component analysis extracted ten components that together explained 87.18% of the total variance. The first principal component (PC1) was mainly associated with, leaf width and length, bunch weight and width, sugar content, dried fruit weight of bunch, rachis weight and dried fruit weight of peduncle, and berry separating from the pedicel. Cluster analysis grouped the cultivars and genotypes into four major clusters at an approximate Euclidean distance of 5, based on traits such as leaf length and width, fruit ripening time, average yield, bunch and bunch shoulder weights, berry length and weight, berry shape, berry hardness, and juiciness of berry flesh. The cultivar “Zarde Vargache” and the genotype “GD3Chamanar” exhibited the highest average yield and are recommended as productive and well-adapted candidates for the Ilam province. Research limitations: Sample collection was the key challenges in this study. Originality/Value: The genotypes “GF3 Kolm”, “GF2 Kolm”, and “GF1 Kolm” from Badreh region with sugar content of 23.12%, 22.83%, and 21.53% °Brix respectively, are proposed for both table grape production and raisin processing.

Abstract Purpose: Mexican lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is a highly valued citrus fruit, renowned for its nutritional and therapeutic properties. However, its postharvest life is considerably limited due to rapid senescence-related color changes and weight loss. This study evaluated the effectiveness of postharvest immersion in sodium nitroprusside (SNP) in preserving the quality of Mexican lime fruits during 30 days of storage. Research Method: A completely randomized factorial design was employed, testing four SNP concentrations (0, 30, 60, and 90 µM) across three storage intervals (10, 20, and 30 days). Fruits were dipped in SNP solutions for five minutes, air-dried, packed in perforated plastic bags, and stored at 7 °C with 80 ± 5% relative humidity. Each treatment included four replicates of 15 fruits. Evaluations were performed at 10-day intervals. Findings: Sodium nitroprusside treatment effectively preserved the postharvest quality of Mexican lime during the storage period. Compared to the control, it significantly reduced weight loss and electrolyte leakage, maintained chlorophyll content, and delayed carotenoid accumulation in the peel, thereby slowing yellowing and visual senescence. In addition to these preservative effects, SNP treatment also enhanced juice quality by increasing titratable acidity (TA) and ascorbic acid content, and by reducing the total soluble solids to titratable acidity (TSS/TA) ratio, resulting in a more favorable taste index. Among the tested concentrations, 30 µM SNP proved to be the most effective in maintaining external fruit characteristics and improving internal juice quality. Research Limitations: No specific limitations were identified in this study. Originality/Value: This research demonstrates that postharvest immersion in 30 µM SNP is a safe and promising strategy for extending the shelf life and preserving the quality of Mexican lime, thereby enhancing its economic value.

Abstract Purpose: Strawberries are highly perishable fruits with a very limited postharvest shelf life due to their soft texture and high susceptibility to decay. This study aimed to explore an eco-friendly and effective method for maintaining postharvest quality by investigating the effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on the physiological and biochemical characteristics of Camarosa strawberries during cold storage. Research Method: Freshly harvested strawberries were treated with different concentrations of CGA (25, 50, 75, and 100 µM) and stored at 4 °C for 16 days. Fruit quality indicators, including firmness, decay rate, antioxidant capacity, enzymatic activities, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated at regular intervals. Findings: CGA treatment, especially at 75 and 100 µM, significantly preserved fruit firmness, delayed decay symptoms, and maintained higher levels of total phenols, flavonoids, and proline. It also reduced the accumulation of malondialdehyde, electrolyte leakage, and hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, key antioxidant enzymes, including catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase, displayed higher activity in treated fruits, indicating improved oxidative stress tolerance. These combined effects contributed to prolonged postharvest life and better preservation of nutritional and sensory qualities. Research limitations: The study was limited to one cultivar under controlled storage; further research under commercial conditions is suggested. Originality/Value: This work highlights the potential of chlorogenic acid as a natural, safe, and cost-effective postharvest treatment to improve storage stability and fruit quality, offering promising implications for sustainable horticultural practices.

Abstract Purpose: Grapes are economically important fruit crops valued for their nutritional properties and diverse by-products. Maintaining postharvest quality is critical due to rising healthy food demand. Enzymatic browning, mediated by polyphenol oxidase, reduces marketability and organoleptic quality. This study characterized polyphenol oxidase activity, VvPPO1 gene expression, and total phenolic content in grape berry flesh and peel during maturation. Concurrently, Rosa canina hips extract was investigated as a natural polyphenol oxidase inhibitor, providing an alternative to synthetic inhibitors. Research Method: Polyphenol oxidase activity in grape berry flesh and peel was measured spectrophotometrically in the absence and presence different concentrations of the R. canina hips extract and catechin using caffeic acid as the substrate. VvPPO1 gene expression level was quantified by qRT-PCR. Findings: The results indicated that polyphenol oxidase activity varied between tissues and during berry maturation. polyphenol oxidase activity was higher in the flesh (71.17 ± 7.9 µM min⁻¹ g⁻¹ FW) than in the peel, with activity decreasing by 74% in flesh and 58% in peel at 110 days after full bloom. Conversely, VvPPO1 expression in peel (75.87 ± 0.088) was more than in flesh and showed a downward trend during ripening. R. canina hips extract and catechin inhibited polyphenol oxidase activity in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 0.7 mg mL⁻¹ and 0.035 mg mL⁻¹, respectively, demonstrating their potential to suppress grape polyphenol oxidase activity. Research limitations: This study did not evaluate the in vivo effects of R. canina hips extract on grape berry polyphenol oxidase activity or VvPPO1 gene expression in relation to Enzymatic browning control. Originality/Value: This study identifies a key time during grape berry maturation for controlling browning. Furthermore, it demonstrates that R. canina hips extract is a promising natural polyphenol oxidase inhibitor to improve grape shelf life that meets consumer demands for clean-label food products.

Abstract Purpose: Floriculture growers globally encounter ongoing difficulties in keeping cut flowers fresh after harvest. When cut flowers endure longer in the vase, customer satisfaction increases, resulting in higher sales and business viability. While synthetic chemical preservatives have been widely employed to extend the vase life of cut flowers, their adverse environmental and health impacts underscore the urgent need for natural and eco-friendly alternatives. This review critically evaluates the efficacy of some natural preservatives (essential oils, plant extracts, and organic acids) in extending the vase life of cut flowers. Findings: The collected data from controlled studies confirm that certain natural substances have significant therapeutic effects. Essential oils, plant extracts, and organic acids can slow senescence across a variety of flower types, extending both their vase life and their marketable period. Their multiple actions include blocking ethylene production, boosting the flower's natural defenses against decay, fighting microbes, preventing stem blockages, and regulating water pH. Limitations: Despite promising results, three main issues exist with these natural preservatives. First, the best methods for applying them in practice are not yet fully established or standardized for different flower species. Second, the exact molecular ways they affect and interact inside the plant are not completely clear or fully understood. Finally, current production and processing methods are not ready for reliable, consistent, and cost-effective large-scale commercial use. Directions for future research: Future research should focus on three key areas. First, studies should optimize practical application protocols, including precise concentration, timing, and delivery methods. Second, scientists need to clarify the detailed molecular and biochemical mechanisms of action behind these natural compounds. Finally, researchers should develop, standardize, and economically scale up production techniques to make these sustainable solutions commercially viable for the global industry.

Abstract Purpose: The strawberry, known for its delightful flavor and significant nutritional benefits, suffers from a limited shelf life after harvest. Consequently, the proper handling and storage of this delicate fruit are essential. Antimicrobial packaging is recognized as a key application of active packaging. Thus, this study aimed to explore the impact of antimicrobial packaging on the postharvest quality of strawberries. Research Method: This investigation consisted of two experiments. The first experiment involved the use of silica mesoporous particles (SMP) derived from rice husk to create antimicrobial sachets. The loading capacity and release of essential oil (EO) from the substrate were evaluated through gas chromatography analysis. In the second experiment, active packaging for the strawberry cultivar Camarosa was implemented using sachets produced in the first phase, which were infused with peppermint essential oil (PEO). Various qualitative and biochemical characteristics were assessed. Findings: The results revealed that at the conclusion of the storage period, the highest total antioxidant activity (31.72 iron II Mmol g-1) was observed in the fruits packaged with sachets, while the control group exhibited the highest anthocyanin content (83.5mg 100grFW−1). At the end of storage, the treated fruits demonstrated enhanced catalase (198 U g-1) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (1660 U kg-1) activities. The packaged fruits with sachets showed a reduced microbial load, with total mesophilic bacteria counts of 3.7 and 0.5 Log CFU g−1 in the control and treated samples, respectively, at the end of storage. It has been proven that by encapsulating long-term effectiveness is ensured by controlled release hydrocarbon monoterpene such menthol and easy handling, with positive effects for its antifungal activity. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: The findings suggest that the increased enzyme activity and reduced levels of malondialdehyde positively influence the shelf life of strawberry fruits.

Abstract Purpose: This paper provides an in-depth critical review and analysis of recent research undertaken to optimize quality during harvesting, postharvest handling, processing and utilization of breadnut (Artocarpus camansi Blanco). Findings: This treatise provided a comprehensive review on the significance of breadnut as an ideal staple and famine food due to its abundance, processing options, high percentage of complex carbohydrates, unique flavor and culinary qualities. Market potential for this fruit across the globe and its projection to multiply is reviewed as related to increasing demand for fiber rich fruits, utilization in ethnic cuisine and in traditional medicine. The fruit is highly perishable with a shelf life of not more than 2-3 days under ambient conditions. Breadnut rapidly transforms when harvested mature green after 2-3 days to a soft texture and the outer skin of the milky white seeds change to a brown, brittle, tough netlike rind while the flesh changes from a white colour to a light yellow colour. The combined effects of rapid softening and high susceptibility to chilling injury contribute immensely to its short shelf life. Limitations: There were no significant limitations as the literature was available and access to communicate with authors were easily facilitated by the internet. Directions for future research:This istheonly review which collated the findings on postharvest physiology and utilization of breadnut. This information will be useful for tree breeding programs, in order to popularize breadnut as a commercial crop and promote food security at the household and community levels.

Abstract Purpose: Cabbage is important fresh vegetable crop in most of the countries of the world. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. cv. Atlas-70) as influenced by organic and inorganic fertilizers, and mulching. Research methods: The experiment comprised of two different factors such as, factor-A; four different types of fertilizers viz. F₀ (control, no fertilizer), F₁ (vermicompost), F₂ (inorganic fertilizer), and F₃ (mixed of organic and inorganic fertilizer) and factor-B; types of mulches viz. M₀ (control, no mulch), M₁ (water hyacinth), M₂ (rice straw), M₃ (black polythene). This two factors experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Findings: Significant variation was found among the treatments. Result showed F₃M₃ (combination organic and inorganic fertilizer with black polythene) had the highest growth (plant height, stem length, root length, number of roots etc.) and yield (105.93 t/ha) in cabbage. The yield was 63.92% higher from the combined effect of fertilizer and mulch as black polythene (F₃M₃) compared to control (F₀M₀). So, mineral fertilizer and vermicompost with black polythene had the best performance considering the growth and yield of cabbage. Research limitations: Evaluation of different ratios of organic and inorganic fertilizers with mulching could have better outcome or findings of this work. Originality/Value: Combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers with black polythene as mulch have showed the highest growth and yield outcome of cabbage compared to other treatments combinations.This work has the opportunity to reduce the application of inorganic fertilizer to improve the soil health and environment in long run.

Abstract Purpose: International agencies have advocated that monitoring food security and world food resources are necessary to meet the needs of growing populations and to minimize postharvest losses. This paper focuses on the biochemical and physiological bases of changes that causes post-harvest losses and ways to mitigate them. By controlling these metabolic changes, some degree of preservation is possible. Findings: Postharvest losses are 30-50% in developing countries due to energy crisis and lack of proper handling procedures and refrigeration; in contrast to less than 15% in developed countries. Highly perishable commodities like fruits and vegetables are living entities which are characterized by life evolving activities like respiration, transpiration, ripening and metabolic changes. Various compositional changes, such as chlorophyll degradation, softening, and ascorbic acid losses can result in short shelf life. Total 63 species of vegetables are grown in Pakistan but onions, potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, green chilies, coriander, spinach, pumpkin and okra are mostly grown and consumed. Limitations: In Pakistan due to energy crisis and economic constraints no cold food chains/transport is available as a result of which fresh produce endured post-harvest losses.  There is a need to use production technologies supplemented with postharvest techniques to mitigate postharvest losses.Directions for Future Research: Many new technologically viable preservation techniques like modified atmosphere packaging and controlled atmosphere storage should come into existence due to increased health consciousness, increased purchasing power and an increase in percentage of postharvest losses (25-80% fresh produce) which could be applied with such economic constraints.

Abstract Purpose: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, widely used for traditional and emerging therapeutic purposes. This review investigates the environmental and physiological determinants of phytochemical variation in Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), with a focus on optimizing alkaloid yield and raw material quality. As kratom gains commercial traction, particularly in Western markets, the need for standardizing cultivation practices becomes increasingly urgent. Findings: Geographic origin significantly influences mitragynine content, with native Southeast Asian samples displaying higher and more consistent levels than those cultivated elsewhere. Environmental factors such as light exposure, temperature, soil acidity, and nutrient composition play crucial roles in modulating both plant morphology and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. Internally, leaf maturity, organ specificity, and vein color are linked to variable alkaloid profiles, reflecting genetic and developmental influences. Alkaloid biosynthesis is regulated not only by climate and geography but also at the molecular level through gene–environment interactions.  Studies across continents and related species further underscore the diversity and adaptability of the genus. These findings suggest that integrated, site-specific agronomic strategies are essential to support kratom’s evolution as a standardized phytopharmaceutical. Limitations: Most existing studies are regionally constrained, lack standardized methodology, and rarely incorporate multi-site or molecular validation, limiting their broader applicability. Directions for future research: Future work should prioritize field-based, multi-environment trials to validate the effects of environmental variables on alkaloid biosynthesis and biomass traits. In addition, controlled environment experiments, genetic profiling, and enzyme-specific biosynthetic studies are essential to refine cultivation protocols and support regulatory frameworks. Integrative agronomic and phytochemical modeling is also needed to guide the development of standardized and high-quality kratom production systems.

Abstract Purpose: Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a valuable medicinal plant with a short flowering period. Its flowering management can be useful for the production of saffron in a farm or controlled condition. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of plant growth regulators (PGRs) on saffron corms sprouting. Research method: For this purpose, corms were treated with different PGRs including α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) (0, 100, 200, 300 ppm), chlorocholine chloride (CCC) (0, 100, 200, 300 ppm) and gibberellic acid (GA₃) (0, 5, 10, 20 ppm) for two hours and incubated at 20-22 °C for eight weeks. Findings: The results revealed that the effect of PGRs on corms sprouting was significant. It has been shown that treatment of corms with auxin at all concentrations reduced sprouting compared to the control. To prolong dormancy for five weeks, NAA at 200 mg L^-1 was the best choice. While for the fifth week onwards, the most effective treatment was NAA at 100 ppm. Treatment with GA₃ (20 ppm) has shown a stimulatory effect on corm sprouting. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: Sprouting acceleration can keep flowering away from early autumn frosting in farm conditions, while prolongation of corms dormancy provides the possibility of harvesting saffron flowers in several times in a hydroponic system. The results of this study suggested two kinds of chemical for different purposes, inhibition and stimulation of sprouting of saffron corms that can be applicable for saffron hydroponic or farm production, respectively.

Abstract Purpose: Tunisian garlic is widely threatened by the attack of several viruses genus. For this purpose, a reliable protocol was established for rapid in vitro propagation of local garlic (Allium sativum L.) cultivars for large-scale production of virus-free plants and high quality bulblets. Research method: Well disinfected shoot-tips of 1 mm were used as explants and cultivated on MS basal solid media enriched with various growth regulators: 6-Benzylaminopurine, α-Naphthaleneacetic acid, Kinetin, Indole-3-butyric acid and 2-isopentenyladenine for assessment of shoot formation, shoot proliferation and bulb formation. Findings: Among the different phytohormone concentrations and combinations, MS basal medium without any growth regulators (M₀) was found optimal for shoot-tip initiation (96% explants development) and plantlets elongation (56.26 mm). For shoot proliferation, the M₁ culture medium containing 1 mg L^-1 BAP and 0.25 mg L^-1 NAA was the best, giving a multiplication rate of 1.7 plantlets/explant. Shoots on M₀ culture medium formed bulblets earlier. Multiple bulblets per explants were obtained on medium M₂₂ containing 2 mg L^-1 Kin and 0.1 mg L^-1 NAA. Separated bulblets were transferred individually on bulbification media. Non-dividable bulblet was developed in various sizes. Research limitations: Bulblet acclimatization step needs to be well studied for high quality cloves production. Originality/value: This efficient optimized in vitro protocol will be successfully applied for large multiplication of virus-free garlic cultivars.

Abstract Purpose: Postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables are major problem for countries that agriculture is one of the source economy and that losses in tomato have reported from 20 to 50%. It is one of the very perishable fruit and it changes continuously after harvesting. The aim was to evaluate the effect of guava (Psidium guajava) and physic nut (Jatropha curcas) leaf extract on fresh ripe tomato fruits. Research method: Two tomato varieties obtained (UTC and Tandilo) from Gombe Main Market and were then treated with aqueous and ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava and Jatropha curcas leaves to extend their shelf life and maintain the quality of tomato fruits during storage. The experiment was laid out using completely randomized block design, (CRBD). Number of days to deterioration was recorded on visual eating quality. The recorded data were analyzed using analysis of variance. Findings: Ethanolic extracts of P. guajava and J. curcas was highly effective on UTC variety. The postharvest decay that was the main quality factor in this experiment significantly reduced in Tandilo and UTC tomato fruits after using 2.5g/1000ml ethanolic J. curcas leaves extract by 24 and 25 days respectively; and 22 and 23 days after using 2.5g/1000ml ethanolic P. guajava leaves extract. Limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: These findings indicate that application of leaves extracts proved to be effective in extending the shelf life of test tomato fruits.

Abstract Edible coatings are an environmentally friendly technology that is applied to many products to control moisture transfer, soluble and aromatic materials, gas exchange or oxidation processes. The objective of this research was to study the effect of tragacanth gum at the concentrations of 0, 5, 10, and 15 kg m-3 on storage life and edible quality of apple cvs. Red Delicious and Golden Delicious. After applying treatments, the fruits were kept in a cold storage at a temperature of 0±1 ˚C and relative humidity of 85-95 percent. The weight reduction, external quality, microbial load, and general acceptability of the samples were evaluated after 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days of storage, then compared with uncoated apples. It was found that the tragacanth gum significantly reduced fruit weight loss compared to the control, so that weight reduction in uncoated apples was eight times greater than fruits treated with tragacanth gum at 10 kg m-3. This coating preserved firmness of fruit tissue in storage and prevented the softening and senescent breakdown of apples. The tragacanth gum coating desirably preserved the external quality and improved the microbial load, sensory and external properties of the fruits, preserved quality factors of the apples, and prevented fruit ripening during storage. Among the various treatments, the coating at 10 kg m-3 was more effective than the other treatments, maintained fruit juice acidity and pH at desirable levels, and prevented increases in the contents of soluble solids during the storage.