Preharvest Application of Salicylic Acid, Calcium Acetate and Proline for Improving Fruit Quality and Shelf Life of “Early Swelling” Peaches

Abstract

T HE effects of preharvest foliar application of salicylic acid, calcium acetate and proline alone or in combinations on fruit quality and storability of “Early Sweet” peaches cultivar were investigated during 2020 and 2021 seasons. The results showed that preharvest application of all treatments increased fruit flesh firmness as compared with control treatment. Salicylic acid treatment increased fruit weight, size and diameter. Moreover, decreased total sugars and fruit weight loss after storage. The results also showed that, calcium acetate treatment enhanced physical and chemical properties of fruits especially fruit firmness before and after harvest. Proline treatment increased fruit weight, fruit diameter, flesh firmness , TSS, peel anthocyanin content and total sugars. Furthermore, decreased fruit acidity and weight loss after storage on room temperature. In conclusion, the results of the present study recommended using the combination of salicylic acid plus calcium acetate and proline to enhance fruit quality and shelf life of peaches.