University of Tasmania
Browse

File(s) under permanent embargo

Calcium application and impacts on cherry fruit quality

conference contribution
posted on 2023-05-23, 10:20 authored by Measham, PF, Angela RichardsonAngela Richardson, Ashley TownsendAshley Townsend
The most common mineral employed in the management of fruit cracking is calcium (Ca). Ca is a xylem mobile mineral, and as fruit xylem connections and pathways are thought to be reduced during maturation, so early accumulation is vital. Ca has been implicated in building resilience to cracking into fruit, with many studies exploring the impact of late season calcium chloride (CaCl2) spray applications on cracking. These trials have produced inconsistent results but early and repeated spray patterns for calcium uptake are supported by studies in apples. Enhanced Ca uptake rates have been recorded in the sweet cherry cultivar 'Van' with the use of thickeners and surfactants. A major limitation of using direct Ca application to prevent cracking is the unsightly residue left on the fruit, therefore the benefits must outweigh this disadvantage. To assess from where Ca was incorporated into fruit (vascular supply, or directly across the fruit skin) trials were undertaken in southern Tasmania, Australia which included Ca applications supplied via fertigation and/or foliar spray applications. Foliar sprays commenced either before or after Stage II (pit-hardening) of fruit development to assess when any uptake occurred. Ca levels were assessed using ICP-MS at both Stage II and at harvest maturity. It was expected that increased calcium would strengthen fruit tissue and reduce cracking resulting from rain. Relationships between fruit Ca and fruit quality (firmness) were explored, and the potential for continued use of Ca in mediating fruit cracking after rainfall discussed.

Funding

Horticulture Innovation Australia

History

Publication title

Proceedings of the 7th International Cherry Symposium

Volume

1161

Editors

MJ Serradilla, MJ Bernalte-Garcia, M Lopez-Corrales, MJ Serradilla

Pagination

375-381

ISSN

0567-7572

Department/School

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)

Publisher

International Society for Horticultural Science

Place of publication

Belgium

Event title

VII International Cherry Symposium

Event Venue

Plasencia, Spain. Acta Horticulturae 1161

Date of Event (Start Date)

2013-06-23

Date of Event (End Date)

2013-06-27

Rights statement

Copyright 2017 ISHS

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Stone fruit (excl. avocado)

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC