Fruit quality of ‘Gala’ and ‘Fuji’ apples cultivated under different environmental conditions

This study evaluated the effect of growing site environmental conditions on apple fruit quality. Experimental orchards with ‘Gala’ and ‘Fuji’ strains were established in subtropical humid climate Southern Brazil, between 26° 28°S, sites São Joaquim, Caçador Vacaria, located 1415, 960, 971 m, respectively, above sea level. Fruit quality was assessed at harvest after storage from 5th through 8th year planting. At each site, apples harvested one maturity stage stored a controlled atmosphere (CA). two stages, early air late CA. For Joaquim compared those average temperature during season lower whereas number winter chilling hours days bloom to higher. weight red skin area higher russeting index coldest (São Joaquim) for both cultivars. harvest, flesh firmness starch or same as warmest (Caçador Vacaria), depending cultivar date. The rate loss greater cultivars maturities. Titratable acidity (TA) soluble solids content (SSC) when analysis performed. Although produced all three equally affected by external fungal decay, had highest incidence Glomerella cingulata spot. length/diameter ratio watercore developed more CO2 injury diffuse browning. External decay maturity, but an advanced maturity. shows influence growth development need adjust production practices achieve high based pre-harvest environment.