Peaches

Symptoms of Peach and Nectarine Inking: Field inking or skin discoloration is characterized by the appearance of dark colored, brown-black spots or longitudinal stripes on the fruit surface, restricted to the skin (Fig. 1). Inking affects the skin cells and causes the death of these cells, but it will not affect the tissue below or the flesh of the fruit. Although the symptoms are superficial and cosmetic, they render the fruit unmarketable or cause them to be second grade.

University of Delaware extension and Rutgers both as recently reported seeing a large increase in green stinkbugs (Acrosternum hilare or Chinavia hilaris ) in their black light traps.

Why is texture important? Texture is a key fruit quality component when considering consumer acceptability. Fruit texture is usually perceived first with the sense of touch and then by the sensation experienced when eating it. Most consumers want a crisp, crunchy apple and a peach that is juicy and has a melting texture, meaning it yields to chewing without being mushy. Meeting these texture standards can increase fruit marketability.

Why do we need cold storage? Fruits such as apples and peaches are highly perishable and thus have a limited market life potential. Cold storage is an efficient way to maintain fruit quality, mitigate losses and maximize harvest potential. At ambient temperatures, fruit quality characteristics are rapidly changing, decreasing storability. Specifically, long-term ambient storage conditions lead to changes in color, texture, flavor (soluble solids, acidity, aroma), and nutritional value. Therefore, cold storage is a key solution to slow down these changes and thus maintain quality for longer periods of time.

The maturity stage of peach at harvest depends on its target market. Peaches for wholesale are usually harvested firm when their skin just turns yellow for better storability, while peaches sold at farmer markets or pick your own can delay harvest timing until red blush develops with softer texture and higher sweetness for better eating equality.

Sample Collection & Preparation for Perennial Fruit Crops

Fungicide Resistance Management Guidelines for Apple Scab, Powdery Mildew, Brown Rot, and Peach Scab Control in the Mid-Atlantic United States, by Alan R. Biggs, West Virginia University and Kari Peter, Penn State University.

Based on laboratory bioassay results and field screening trials as of February 7, 2011. By Kent Smith, USDA-ARS