SELECTED CONTENTS

Journal of Applied Horticulture Selected Contents of Year

2024 |2023 |2022 |2021 |2020 |2019 |2018 |2017 |2016 |2015 |2014 |2013 |2012 |2011 |2010 |2009 |2008 |2007 |2006 |2005 |2004 |2003 |2002 |2001 |2000 |1999 |0 |
Hayam A.A. Mahdy1, A.M.R. Abdelmawgoud2*, Z.F. Fawzy2 and Huda A. Ibrahim2

1Botany Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. 2Vegetable Research Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: DR_abdelmawgoud@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.02


Key words: Cucumber, nano calcium, nano silicon, plant growth, total fruit weight
Abstract: Trials were carried out in plastic greenhouses at a private farm in the Qaha region, Qalubia Governorate, Egypt (30.288 N; 31.198 E), during two consecutive spring seasons (2020 and 2021). The objective was to investigate the impact of nano compounds, spray specifically nano calcium and nano silicon, on the growth characteristics, yield, and quality of cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus L.) under protected cultivation conditions. The study used two foliar sprays of Lithovit® (nano calcium carbonate 80.2 %) at 0.0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 g/L and nano silicon (SiO2 25 %) at 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mL/L. Nano elements (calcium or silicon) were applied to cucumber seedlings in the second, fourth, sixth, and eighth weeks after transplantation. All monitored attributes increased with both nano-element treatments. Plants receiving nano calcium had higher plant height, fresh and dry weights, and branch counts than those receiving nano silicon. However, growth was best with 1.0 g/L nano calcium. Compared to control, nano elements boosted cucumber plant N, P, K, Ca, and Si. In both nano calcium and nano silicon treatments, fruit length, diameter, average weight, and total weight rose. Yield increases may outweigh nano nutrient costs.
Madhu Kumar, Prahlad Deb* and Pradipto Kumar Mukherjee

Department of Horticulture & Postharvest Technology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan - 731236, West Bengal. Corresponding e-mail: debprld@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.03


Key words: Wild date palm, fruit morphology, biochemical profile, antioxidant
Abstract: The date palm is regarded as one of the most nutritious fruits of the arid zone. Fruits are eaten fresh as hard, ripe, or soft dates and are high in calories, iron, magnesium, vitamins, and antioxidants. There is a high potential for expanding the area, production, and processing of date palm as a rain-fed fruit crop in the Western dry tract of West Bengal, where wild types grow abundantly without human intervention. Thus, the current study was conducted to investigate the physicochemical and antioxidative properties of fifteen wild date palm (Phoenix sylvestris Roxb.) genotypes (P-1 to P-15) from various locations in the Bolpur Sriniketan Block of the Birbhum district during the year 2022 in order to identify superior genotypes for commercial exploitation through a future breeding programme. The majority of the genotypes showed early-to-mid season fruiting with consistent fruit bearing. Date palm genotypes P-6, P-2, P-15, and P-12 had larger fruit sizes, higher pulp content, and higher TSS. The P-1 accession had the highest fruit productivity value (27 bunches/tree). Notably, at the rutab stage, accessions P-1, P-6, P-2, P-15, and P-12 had significant sugar content, indicating excellent fruit quality and antioxidant richness. These genotypes are recommended as ideal candidates for propagation and subsequent cultivation due to their outstanding characteristics.
A.M. Dandwate*, B.H. Joshi and R.M. Dhingani

College of Food Processing Technology and Bioenergy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, (388110), Gujarat, India. Corresponding e-mail: amrutadandwate01@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.04


Key words: Mango seed kernel (MSK), mango seed kernel oil (MSKO) yield, total phenolic content, tray dryer.
Abstract: The mango seed kernel (MSK) stands out as a rich source of total phenolic compounds and premium-quality fats. This study aimed to optimize the hot air drying process parameters for MSK, utilizing a tray dryer to achieve maximum yield of mango seed kernel oil (MSKO) while retaining high levels of total phenolic compounds. The experimentation involved the application of a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) analysis, leading to the identification of the optimal drying conditions—60°C temperature, resulting in a yield of 11.80% MSKO and 163.28 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of MSK, with a desirability index of 0.861.After establishing the standard hot air drying parameters, the biochemical composition of MSK showed enhancement due to the effective preservation of bioactive compounds, particularly total phenolic compounds. This extensive experiment not only improves the yield of MSKO but also enhances the nutritional value of MSK. The findings highlight the potential for additional investigation and utilisation of mango seed kernel in food and bioenergy applications.
M.S. Srinivas, K. Rajesh*, P. Supraja, E. Tejaswini, M. Meghana and A. Srihari

College of Food Science and Technology, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Pulivendula, Andhra Pradesh. Corresponding e-mail: k.rajesh@angrau.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.05


Key words: Ripened banana, freeze drying, biscuits, textural property and solubility index
Abstract: The study is undertaken to develop fortified powder blends of wheatgrass and ripened banana to evaluate the technical properties of flours. The combinations were produced by adding banana powder to the wheatgrass in the combinations of C1 (50W:50B), C2 (25W:75B), C3 (75W:25B), C4 (0W:100B), C5 (100W:0B). The proximate analysis such as moisture content, protein, ash content was reported to be higher in C1 and C2, respectively. Ash content of blend flours ranged between 4.2 to 6.8%, whereas protein was reported between 3.22 to 13.22%. The bulk density and tapped density were reported in the following order: C4>C1>C2>C3>C5 with bulk density values of 0.487, 0.384, 0.317, 0.263 and 0.232 g/cc, respectively. Hausner’s ratio ranged from 1.108 to 1.307 across different flours, which fall under fair and passable flow characteristics. A solubility index of 0.16±0.02 g/g was reported for both C2 and C5, represented by 75 and 100% of banana flour, respectively. Biscuits produced from the developed flour blends reported hardness in the order of C3> C1>C2 indicating hard biscuits from blending with a higher proportion of wheatgrass flour. Adhesive force of biscuit samples were 10, 29 and 20 (g) for samples C1, C2 and C3, respectively.
N.El Bey*, A. Mami Maazoun, O. Nahdi, N. Ben Krima and M.K. Aounallah

1National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, INAT, Tunis Cedex 1082, University of Carthage, Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Tunis, Tunisia. Corresponding e-mail: nazihabey87@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.01


Key words: Hydric stress, morphological features, physiological features, biochemical features
Abstract: Agriculture is grappling with water scarcity, leading to diminished crop yields, economic challenges, environmental degradation, and threats to food security. The future of agriculture hinges on the implementation of sustainable water resource management and adaptation strategies. Specifically, in arid regions, the adoption of water-efficient irrigation practices is crucial for fruit growers. This approach not only helps in conserving water but also reduces costs and ensures the vitality of orchards. The cultivation of fruit trees, especially in water-stressed areas, demands meticulous irrigation management for survival. Growers play a key role in identifying stress indicators that serve as crucial markers for monitoring tree health. Proactively addressing these indicators enables growers to maintain healthier trees, resulting in higher yields. Identifying and understanding fruit tree stress indicators play a pivotal role in enhancing orchard management practices, ultimately contributing to increased yields, cost reduction, and the promotion of sustainability. This review evaluates the effectiveness of stress indicators in gauging water stress levels. It delves into the multifaceted impacts of water scarcity on agriculture and underscores the recommendation for water-efficient irrigation practices to counteract fluctuations in water availability. In environments facing water scarcity, vigilant irrigation management coupled with the identification of stress indicators strengthens the resilience and productivity of fruit tree agriculture. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on sustainable horticulture in the face of a changing world.
Yashkumar1, Dutta Samit 2 and P. Srilatha1*

1Department of Food Processing Technology, College of Food Processing Technology and Bio Energy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat 388110, India. 2Department of Food Business Management, College of Food Processing Technology and Bio Energy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat 388110, India. Corresponding e-mail: srilatha2708@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.06


Key words: Cactus fruit, mint, tisane, total betalain content, total antioxidant activity, drying, herbal tea
Abstract: Cactus (prickly pear) is a nutrient-rich fruit with medicinal and health benefits, including minerals (iron, calcium, potassium), vitamins, antioxidants, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer effects. Mint, a versatile herb, enhances flavor. Herbal fruit teas are increasingly popular. Tisanes are popular for its antioxidant properties mainly because of phenols, which leach in water during infusion. Cactus fruits were dried in hot air dryer and the drying temperature of 50°C was optimized based on minimum drying time, maximum total betalain content and maximum total antioxidant activity. Mint leaves were dried using shade drying at a temperature of 30±2°C up to a moisture content of 7%. Formulation of cactus fruit-based tisane was done by using different cactus-mint ratios. Cactus mint ratio was standardized by highest overall acceptability, total antioxidant activity, and colour a* value. Cactus fruit-based tisane infusion was prepared by dipping a tea bag containing 2 g of dried material in 100 mL of hot water (95±2°C) for a steeping time of 2 min. Based on statistical analysis, the best combination of cactus fruit-mint ratio for tisane was optimized as 85:15. Infusion of cactus fruit-based tisane contained 10.92 mg/100g of total betalain content, 0.89 mg/100g of vitamin C, 12.19 mM/100g of total antioxidant activity etc., and the microbial analysis revealed that the total plate count (cfu/g) was in limit and yeast and mould count (cfu/g) was zero.
B. Saai Vignesh1, B. Anujaa2 and S. Manickavasagam2

1Agricultural College & Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. 2 Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. Corresponding e-mail: b.saai.vignesh@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.07


Key words: Tetragonula sp., foraging, pollination, coriander seed yield
Abstract: In this study, we investigated the efficiency of Tetragonula iridipennis Smith, India’s prevalent stingless bee, as a pollinator during the Rabi season, specifically focusing on coriander, cultivated for seed production. Our findings revealed several key insights during the peak blooming period of coriander. The highest activity of outgoing bees occurred between 1000-1200 hrs, with the peak number of pollen foragers recorded between 1100-1200 hrs, averaging 3.83 bees/5min/hour over six days. Nectar-foraging bees were most active between 1100 and 1400 hrs, while resin-foraging bees were observed at their peak between 1400 and 1500 hrs. Incorporating stingless bees in open-pollinated coriander crops resulted in a substantial yield of 130 kg of seeds per acre per 10 colonies, accompanied by 130 g of honey production within 28 days. Comparatively, this represented a 31 percent increase in seed production when compared to fields without bee colonies. These findings underscore the valuable role of T. iridipennis in enhancing coriander seed production, with potential implications for crop productivity and honey production.
Harshit Mishra*, K.K. Singh and Supriya

Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.)-224 229, India. Corresponding e-mail: wehars@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.08


Key words: Bitter gourd, constraints, garrett ranking technique, marketing efficiency, marketing pattern, price spread, producer’s share in consumer rupee.
Abstract: This paper presents a study conducted in the Sultanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, focusing on the marketing of bitter gourd in the selected area. The research employed a multistage stratified purposive cum random sampling technique to select the district, block, villages, and respondents. From the population, 100 growers were randomly chosen, comprising 66 marginal, 23 small, and 11 medium farmers during the period of 2021-2022, using the proportionate allocation technique. Primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a survey schedule. Three distinct marketing channels for bitter gourd were identified: Channel-I (producer to consumer), Channel-II (producer to retailer to consumer) and Channel-III (producer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer). The study revealed that Channel-I exhibited the highest marketing efficiency (29.15), followed by Channel-II (5.47) and Channel-III showed the lowest efficiency (2.96). Notably, different groups of farms predominantly sold bitter gourd through Channel-III. The research also shed light on the challenges faced by bitter gourd growers, including issues related to perishability, price fluctuations, and inadequate storage facilities. The paper emphasizes the significance of policymakers and stakeholders addressing these challenges and developing effective strategies and interventions to support the bitter gourd farming community.
Ruthy Tabing1*, Tadar Jamja2, Sunny Taying3, Bishal Saikia1, Daisy Senapoty1 and Shaik Faheem Akhtar4

1Department of Plant Pathology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (India). 2Department of Horticulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (India). 3Department of Horticulture, Chidambaram University, Annamalai, Tamil Nadu (India). 4Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam (India). Corresponding e-mail: ruthytabing006@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.09


Key words: Anti-browning chemical, postharvest, pineapple, fresh-cut fruits, fruits, Ananascomosus, preservative
Abstract: Food spoilage due to browning is one of the major challenges faced by the food and processing industries. In fruits and vegetables, browning due to both enzymatic and nonenzymatic reactions is a common event that renders them unattractive and unsuitable for consumption. In the last few decades, numerous studies have been conducted to slow or inhibit these undesirable physiological reactions during processing and storage. An experiment was carried out to determine the effect of different antibrowning agents on the quality and shelf life of fresh-cut pineapple from 2020-2021 in the laboratory of the Department of Horticulture at Annamalai University. The experiment consisted of 11 treatments and was replicated 3 times, viz., T1 (ascorbic acid 500 ppm), T2 (ascorbic acid 1000 ppm), T3 (citric acid 250 ppm), T4 (citric acid 500 ppm), T5 (sodium chloride 100 ppm), T6 (sodium chloride 200 ppm), T7 (calcium chloride 100 ppm), T8 (calcium chloride 200 ppm), T9 (honey 5%), T10 (honey 10%), and T11 (control). Antibrowning agents significantly and positively impacted the quality parameters of fresh-cut fruits. The minimum PLW (0.71%) and maximum scores of firmness (2.16kg/cm2), titratable acidity (0.53%), total sugar (11.65%), nonreducing sugar (1.94%) and texture index (2.37) were recorded in T8. However, maximum TSS (14.6 °Brix), total sugar (11.65%), and reducing sugar (9.48%) were recorded in T10. The lowest browning rate was recorded in the treatment with ascorbic acid in T2. The treatments with calcium chloride and ascorbic acid best retained the quality of fresh-cut pineapple fruit.
Vivek Mishra and Mohammad Faisal

Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: vivek_mishra2012@rediffmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.10


Key words: YouTube, mango cultivation, video originality, channel categories, geographical location, subscriber counts, principal components analysis, correlation analysis.
Abstract: This research delved into the dynamics of knowledge-sharing on YouTube within the context of mango cultivation. Analyzing a diverse dataset of 153 videos, the impact of video originality, channel categories, and geographical locations on viewership and subscriber counts was investigated. While descriptive statistics suggested that, on average, original videos received more views, an ANOVA revealed a non-significant difference in viewership between original and non-original videos, indicating additional factors at play. Geographical locations demonstrated significant variations in subscriber counts, emphasizing the influence of location on mean views. Correlation analysis underscored strong positive associations between subscriber counts and views/likes, highlighting the key role of subscribers in measuring audience engagement. Utilizing Principal Components Analysis (PCA), we identified six components explaining 100% of the dataset variance. Component 1 represented overall video popularity, while Component 2 captured nuances of content quality and appreciation. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights for content creators and researchers navigating YouTube's landscape for knowledge-sharing in mango cultivation. While originality and channel categories may not be the primary drivers of viewership, geographical location and subscriber counts emerged as crucial influencers. The PCA and correlation analyses reveal intricate aspects that contribute to video performance, enabling stakeholders to enhance content strategies for efficient knowledge dissemination on YouTube.
Kavita Yadav1, T. Damodaran2*, Kakoli Dutt1, Sangeeta Kumari2, Prasenjith Debnath2, Alok Shukla1 and Ram Gopal3

1Banasthali Vidyapeeth, Jaipur, Inida. 2ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow-226101, India. 3Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ANDUAT, Ayodhya, India. Corresponding e-mail: damhort73@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.40


Key words: Fusarium wilt, cumin, Bacillus licheniformis, disease incidence, tolerance, crop yield, proline content, defense enzymes
Abstract: The field survey conducted in Rajasthan, India, unveiled the widespread occurrence of Fusarium wilt in cumin fields that have been continuously cultivated for approximately 4 to 5 years. The incidence of this disease exceeded 30%, affecting cumin plants at all stages of growth, with severe symptoms ultimately resulting in the complete mortality of the plants. In laboratory studies, a bacterial isolate known as Bacillus licheniformis (CSR-D4) exhibited remarkable in vitro effectiveness, significantly inhibiting Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cumnini (FOC) mycelial growth by an impressive 79.85%. In controlled pot experiments, cumin plants treated with B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) displayed milder symptoms than untreated plants, demonstrating a notably higher tolerance level, with only a 15% disease incidence as opposed to 90% in untreated plants. Further analysis of defense enzymes revealed elevated chlorophyll, carotenoid, peroxidase activity levels, and proline content in cumin plants treated with B. licheniformis (CSR-D4). Field assessments confirmed the efficacy of this bacterial isolate, as it successfully suppressed wilt incidence by 60%, significantly increased crop yield by 71.16%, and promoted root and shoot growth. Notably, applying B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) did not negatively impact beneficial microorganisms, and no adverse phytotoxic symptoms were observed. This study underscores the considerable potential of B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) in managing Fusarium wilt, offering an environmentally friendly and highly effective solution to enhance the health and productivity of pea plants.
Muhammad Munir1,2*

1Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, P.O. Box 31982, Saudi Arabia. 2Frontier Agriculture, SOYL Precision Crop Production Division, Newbury, United Kingdom. Corresponding e-mail: mmunir@kfu.edu.sa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.41


Key words: Chrysanthemum, Chrysanthemum × morifolium, flowering time, photoperiod, shade, temperature, photo-thermal models
Abstract: Chrysanthemum is a short-day plant, which flowers when the night length is longer. Photoperiod and temperature are two key environmental factors that affect time of flowering. In the current research, experiments were carried out to study the flowering response of two cultivars of chrysanthemum, i.e., Crimson Glory and Snowscape under four distinct photoperiods (8, 11, 14, and 17 h d?1), shading levels (20, 30, 40, and 60%), and temperatures (10, 15, 20, and 25 °C). A qualitative short-day response was observed in all experiments. Both cultivars took minimum time to flower when grown under 8 h d?1, however, it was significantly delayed when photoperiod decreased. Similarly, days taken to flowering were decreased significantly when plants were grown in 30% shade, which was delayed by increasing shade level (40 and 60%). Temperature also had a significant effect on the developmental phases of flower as above (25 °C) and below (10?15 °C) 20 °C temperature delayed flowering time. The present study also confirms that per day rate of progress to flowering was higher at 8 h d?1 photoperiod, in 30% shade level, and at 20 °C temperature. These findings revealed a prospect of plant scheduling of the flowering time of chrysanthemum cultivars grown in long-day photoperiod to extend their marketing period, as the plants remains vegetative. A steady supply of this flowering annual can also be maintained in the market by growing them under different shades. The quality of plants would also benefit from an ideal growing temperature of between 15-20 °C.
Resti Safitri1, Erma Prihastanti2* and Sri Darmanti2

1Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Diponegoro, Indonesia. 2Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Diponegoro, Indonesia. Corresponding e-mail: eprihast@yahoo.co.id

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.42


Key words: Vanilla planifolia, root, auxin, Trichoderma harzianum
Abstract: Vanilla is a type of spice plant with high economic value. The availability of healthy vanilla seedlings is now one of the conditions for successful large-scale vanilla cultivation. Conventional cultivation of vanilla generally uses a vegetative method (cuttings), in which the growth of roots and shoots is slow, so it needs to be accelerated. Application of the combination of plant growth regulator and biological inoculant is expected to stimulate root growth and development. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factors, namely auxin, which consisted of 4 concentration levels, namely: A0 (0 ppm), A1 (50 ppm), A2 (100 ppm), A3 (150 ppm); and T. harzianum which consisted of 4 concentration levels, namely: T0 (0 g), T1 (2 g), T2 (4 g), and T3 (6 g). Data analysis used quantitative methods. The results showed that there was no interaction between T. harzianum and auxin. The addition of T. harzianum could increase the vegetative growth of vanilla cuttings in the parameters of shoot growth time, plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight, and root length while the application of auxin affects the increased in the number of roots of vanilla cuttings.
Sagar Teraiya, Dhaval Nirmal and Preetam Joshi*

Department of Biotechnology, Atmiya University, Rajkot (India) 360005.Corresponding e-mail: preetam.joshi@atmiyauni.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.43


Key words: Seaweed, micropropagation, banana, low-cost alternatives
Abstract: The current work aims to provide a cost-effective and reliable micropropagation method of banana using some natural extract of unexplored potential seaweeds. We tried natural extract of eight different seaweeds (C. racemosa, Gracilaria edalis, Caulerpa paspaloides, Ulva lactuca, Sargassum tenerrimum., Caulerpa sertularioides, Sargassum wightii, Gracilaria corticata.) to check their role in in vitro growth and development of micropropagules and their potential in replacing commercial plant growth regulators (PGRs) in banana micropropagation. The in vitro developed shoots were allowed to grow on modified MS medium supplemented with different seaweed extracts and regularly subcultured on the same medium throughout the experiment. The growth and biochemical parameters were recorded and compared with micropropagules growing in a controlled environment (i.e., MS medium supplemented with/without standard PGRs). We found a significant increase in shoot length (highest in S. tenerrimum, i.e. double as compared to negative control), shoot number (highest in G. edalis, i.e., three fold as compared to negative control) and fresh weight (S. tenerrimum) of the banana micropropagules when grown under the influence of Liquid Seaweed Extract (LSE). This is comparable to growth observed in standard control conditions (i.e. positive control). However, addition of LSE of G. corticate, C. paspaloides and S. wightii did not show any noteworthy effect on shoot length, shoot number and fresh weight. Total chlorophyll and other biomolecule accumulation in test propagules varied with types and concentrations of LSE. S. tenerrimum proved to be overall good growth promoter, as it caused maximum accumulation of chlorophyll (0.202±0.02 mg g-1) and protein (105±0.45 mg g-1) and significant and encouraging results in phenol, carbohydrates and proline. Our results show that seaweed can be potential source of beneficial natural compounds and it can be a cheaper option in banana micropropagation technology.
Sheren A. Atala, Mona M. Haffez and M. EL-M. Saad

Department of Postharvest and Handling of Vegetable Crops, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt.Corresponding e-mail: mona.montasser75@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.44


Key words: Asparagus spears, ozone gas, 1-methylcyclopropane, active MAP, cold storage, PAL enzyme.
Abstract: This study was conducted during 2022 and 2023 seasons to evaluate the influence of 1-MCP as sheet contained 5%, exposed to ozone gas (4 or 7 ppm), active MAP (5% O2 + 5% CO2 or 5% O2 + 10% CO2) and passive MAP as compared with untreated control on quality attributes and storability of asparagus spears (UC157 F2) during storage at 2°C and 90-95% RH for 20 days. Results indicated that asparagus spears treated with all postharvest treatments were effective in reducing weight loss %, curvature, Phenylalanine ammonia-lays enzyme activity, discoloration, colour change, O2 consumption and CO2 production as well as in maintaining total chlorophyll, total phenolic and the overall appearance of spears during storage as compared with untreated control. However, asparagus spears treated with ozone gas at 4 ppm were the most effective treatment in preserving all the quality attributes of spears. Furthermore, this treatment showed the excellent appearance of spears without any discoloration and curvature till 20 days of storage while ozone gas (7 ppm), 1-MCP and active MAP (5% O2 + 5% CO2) treatments gave a good appearance at the same period. The gas composition inside the package treated with ozone gas at 4 or 7 ppm had high O2 and low CO2 %.

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Journal of Applied Horticulture