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Post Harvest: Greenhouse

1203 - Incidence of Drosophila Suzzuki in Postharvest

Principal Investigator: Kent Daane

Affiliation: UC Berkeley

Contact: kdaane@ucanr.edu

Spotted wing Drosophila has continued to be a difficult invasive pest to control without the use of broad-spectrum materials.  We propose to test newer, reduced-risk products against spotted wing drosophila and observe any secondary effects it may have on PTB or OFM.  New products are in the process of being developed by ISK Biosciences and their preliminary data shows good efficacy.  Another product we intend to test is Surround, which is already registered in cherries.  This product will be tested at different concentrations and application timings to determine its efficacy.  The use of Surround is common in cherry orchards to prevent sunburn.  Surround has also been proven to have insect-repellant and insect-killing qualities.

1401 - Influence of Postharvest Treatments on Blueberry & Table Grape

Principal Investigator: Mary Lu Arpaia

Affiliation: UC Riverside

Contact: mlarpaia@ucanr.edu

Sensory evaluation is a critically important component in research to develop commercially feasible practices to protect and prolong the postharvest life of fresh berries and table grapes. In this collaboration, the effect on sensory aspects of various approaches employed to extend the storage and shipping life of these fruit, such as modified atmospheres, sulfur dioxide fumigation, pre-harvest fungicide applications, and cultural practices, will be assessed.

658 - Evaluation Response of California Citrus to Postharvest

Principal Investigator: Mary Lu Arpaia

Affiliation: UC Riverside

Contact: mlarpaia@ucanr.edu

The overall objective of this project is to continue an applied research program aimed at improving the quality of citrus fruit at retail, and identifying the points in the handling and distribution chain where a loss of quality may occur.  This could encompass one or more aspects of harvest and post-harvest handling, including fruit picking and transfer, processing, packing, shipment and storage.  Improvements in temperature control, handling techniques, equipment type, and packaging with practical, commercial application are examples of research interest.   The results of this research is extended to the California citrus industry through presentations at grower and packer meetings and written reports to the industry.