Harvested fruits, like trees, are living organisms that continue to respire during storage. To maintain their quality and enhance their resistance to microbial attacks, several effective methods can be employed to extend the storage period.
First, choosing the right time and method for harvesting is crucial. Harvesting too early or too late can negatively impact fruit quality and storage life. It's best to harvest within 10 days before or after the optimal harvest time. When picking, handle the fruits gently to avoid mechanical damage, and sort out any damaged or diseased fruits immediately.
Second, using natural or chemical treatments can help prevent spoilage. For example, garlic, onions, or anise contain bactericidal compounds. These can be diluted in water and used to soak the fruits, or placed in the storage container along with fennel oil or pine and cypress leaves to reduce rot. Chemicals like thiophanate-methyl and carbendazim are also effective in preventing fungal infections. Additionally, auxin such as 2,4-D has been shown to improve the preservation of citrus fruits, but due to environmental concerns, its use is now discouraged in organic production.
Third, washing fruits with a mild solution, such as 1% baking soda, can significantly extend their shelf life. Another common practice is to bag each fruit individually using paper or plastic bags. This not only protects against physical damage but also helps insulate the fruit and prevents cross-infection from other spoiled fruits. This method is widely used for most types of fruits.
Finally, controlling the humidity and temperature in the storage area is essential. The room’s temperature should be adjusted by opening or closing air vents based on morning and evening temperatures. During colder hours, close the windows, and open them again in the morning to maintain a stable environment. After the winter solstice, when it gets coldest, all vents should remain closed. As spring approaches, ventilation should be managed according to the weather to avoid overheating. Humidity is another critical factor—ideally, it should be kept between 80% and 90%. If the air is too moist, materials like lime, ash, or charcoal can be used to absorb excess moisture. If it's too dry, water tanks or watering the floor can help increase humidity.
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