Maturation and storage quality of six ‘golden delicious’ x ‘red dougherty’ apple selections

Abstract

The maturation and storage quality of six ‘Golden Delicious’ x ‘Red Dougherty’ apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) selections (3561, 4354, 4396, 4766, 4772, and 5029) were investigated for one season. Three selections (4396, 4354, and 4772) were studied for a further season. Selections matured at different rates and the timing of increased internal ethylene concentrations and starch pattern indices varied between selections. Fruit of Selection 4772 from all harvests developed severe internal browning in storage. Selections 5029, 4772, 4354, and 4396 were susceptible to superficial scald but except for Selection 4772 incidence of the disorder declined with progressive harvest date. Appropriate harvest periods will need to be based on market criteria and consumer acceptability. © 1995 The Royal Society of New Zealand.