Hawthorn has good storage resistance, but there are still two main challenges during the storage process: first, the fruit is highly prone to water loss and wilting; second, it is vulnerable to fungal infections, which can lead to extensive decay. Therefore, proper attention must be given to several key factors when storing hawthorn.
**I. Variety and Cultivation Considerations**
1. **Variety Selection**: There are many hawthorn varieties, each with different storage characteristics. It's recommended to choose varieties that have high storage resistance and are widely cultivated in the region.
2. **Regional and Climatic Influences**: Hawthorn grown in northern China, especially in colder regions like Liaoning, Beijing, and Shandong, tends to have better storage qualities than those from southern areas such as Henan and Hubei. Yunnan hawthorn is known for being particularly resistant to storage.
3. **Harvest Time**: The timing of harvest plays a crucial role in storage success. For long-term storage, hawthorn should be harvested slightly early, while for immediate sale or processing, later harvesting may be more suitable. However, harvesting too early can result in poor flavor and quality, while harvesting too late increases the risk of fruit drop, mechanical damage, and quicker spoilage. Ideally, hawthorn should be picked when the skin turns red and a waxy coating appears on the surface. Harvesting in the morning helps reduce mechanical injury. After picking, the fruit should be cooled in a shaded area for 1–2 days before being stored in cold storage at 0°C.
**II. Storage Conditions**
- **Temperature**: -1°C to 0°C
- **Humidity**: 85% to 95%
- **Atmosphere**: Oxygen 3%–5%, Carbon Dioxide 3%–5%
- **Storage Duration**: 3–7 months
**III. Storage Techniques and Management**
There are various methods for storing hawthorn, all of which rely on creating the right temperature, humidity, and gas conditions.
1. **Gully Method**: Commonly used in Shandong and Hebei, this method involves digging trenches in a north-south direction. A layer of wet sand is placed at the bottom, followed by hawthorn fruits stacked in layers. During the day, the pile is covered with grass or cloth to protect from heat, and at night, it is ventilated. When temperatures drop, the trench is covered with soil for insulation. This method is cost-effective and can preserve hawthorn until the following year.
2. **Burial Method (Pit Storage)**: A pit about 1 meter deep and 70 cm in diameter is dug. A layer of fine sand is placed at the bottom, then the hawthorn is packed in layers, separated by sand. The pit is then sealed and left undisturbed until spring.
3. **Cellaring**: This is a common method in northern China. A well-ventilated cellar is chosen, and the fruit is stored in baskets or boxes. Proper spacing is maintained for ventilation, and the storage period can last until April if managed carefully.
4. **Cylinder Storage**: A simple method for small-scale storage. A clean container is placed in a cool location, with a pot of water at the bottom for moisture. Straw is added for ventilation, and the hawthorn is placed inside. The top is sealed with paper or tape when temperatures drop.
**IV. Ventilation and Cold Storage**
For large-scale storage, ventilation and cold storage are commonly used. Natural cooling or mechanical refrigeration is utilized to maintain optimal conditions. In the early stages, rapid cooling is essential, and stable temperatures should be maintained throughout the storage period. Humidity control and regular ventilation are also important.
**V. Modified Atmosphere Storage**
Modified atmosphere storage using polyethylene film bags is effective. These bags help regulate gas composition, reduce water loss, and delay aging. They can be used in conjunction with cold storage for better results. Some methods include:
- **Film Pouch Packaging**: Using 0.04–0.07 mm thick polyethylene bags, each containing 20–25 kg of hawthorn.
- **Silicon Window Bags**: These allow controlled gas exchange and are easy to use.
- **Large Account Storage**: Using larger polyethylene bags (0.1–0.2 mm thick) with capacities of 500–2500 kg. Methods include natural dehydration, artificial oxygen reduction, and silicon window gas regulation.
**VI. Major Issues and Prevention**
1. **Wilting**: Low humidity can cause excessive water loss. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels is crucial—90–95% at lower temperatures, and 85–90% at higher temperatures (2–4°C). Using silicone window packaging or modified atmosphere techniques can also help.
2. **Decay**: Storing hawthorn at the right temperature, humidity, and gas conditions significantly reduces decay. Early storage allows for higher COâ‚‚ and lower Oâ‚‚ levels, while later storage requires the opposite to prevent spoilage.
By following these guidelines, hawthorn can be stored effectively, maintaining its quality and extending its shelf life.
Alginate Dressing,Silver Alginate,Alginate Wound Dressing,Alginate Dressing For Wound Care
Henan Maidingkang Medical Technology Co.,Ltd , http://www.mdkmedical.com