Treatment with 1-MCP: an alternative to extend storage in plums harvested with advanced maturity

Maturity at harvest is a determining factor in fruit storage potential, especially such perishable species as plums (Prunus salicina L.). However, harvest´s logistics very complex, and large percentage of fruits are harvested more advanced stage maturity than the optimum recommended for long storage. Treatment with 1-MCP has shown to be effective reducing post-harvest deterioration rate Japanese plums, but effectiveness this treatment may reduced late fruit. The aim trial was determine efficiency 0.4 µL L-1 Larry Ann 4 different stages. results showed that ripening all timings. duration effect number parameters affected decreased delayed. In 1 (M1, ~62 N) 2 (M2, ~58 N), delayed ethylene production during shelf life after 30, 40, 50 days 0 ºC loss flesh firmness, acidity. At 3 (M3, ~50N) 30 40 maintained higher firmness values. (M4, ~35 did not affect rate, life, supporting hypothesis direct inhibitory on softening enzymes, independent ethylene.