Trials aimed at improving the storage potential of Heidi.
Kruger F. J., Kritzinger M., Bezuidenhout M.
Author Affiliation: Institute for Tropical and Subtropical Crops, Private Bag X11208, Nelspruit 1200, South Africa.
: 100-104
Abstract : A study was conducted during 1997 in South Africa to continue the work on the improvement of the storage potential of mango cv. Heidi. External defects during storage were identified. The trials included a controlled atmosphere/heat treatment trial, picking pedicel sealing trial, bruising trial and chemical analysis survey. Analysis of results produced the following recommendations: plant feeding and irrigation practices should be planned for fruit quality; fruits must be harvested mature but as green as possible; fruits with little blush must be avoided. A hot water bath treatment for 15 minutes at 40°C is advisable. Coating with an appropriate wax is essential. Storage temperature should be at 12°C. Carbon dioxide at 4% and oxygen at 6% are optimum for storage in controlled atmospheres.