Summary
This field trial examined how harvest stage (mature-green versus red-ripe) and growing medium composition affected postharvest quality attributes in soilless-cultured tomatoes. Red-ripe tomatoes demonstrated significantly higher TSS, vitamin C, and TSS/TA ratios than mature-green counterparts, with consumer preference favouring the red-ripe stage. Growing media type (palmpeat/perlite combinations and fermentation status) also significantly influenced fruit quality metrics.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in a soilless system using controlled growing conditions (constant temperature, humidity, irrigation), making the findings potentially relevant to UK glasshouse tomato production systems. However, the specific palmpeat and perlite formulations and regional consumer preferences may require adaptation to UK horticultural practice and market requirements.
Key measures
Titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), vitamin C content, TSS/TA ratio
Outcomes reported
The study compared postharvest fruit quality parameters (titratable acidity, total soluble solids, vitamin C, and their ratio) of tomatoes harvested at mature-green versus red-ripe stages grown in soilless systems using different growing media. Red-ripe stage tomatoes showed superior quality metrics and consumer preference compared to mature-green harvested fruit.
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