Effect of Storage Conditions on the Incidence of Gloeosporium Rots of Apple Fruits

Abstract

SAMPLES of Cox's Orange Pippin obtained from various parts of south-east England were held in cold (37° F.) and in gas (39° F., 3 per cent oxygen and 5 per cent carbon dioxide) storage for periods of approximately 3½ months and 4½ months respectively. On removal from storage, the samples were examined for rots caused by Gloeosporium spp., but owing to lack of time the causal species on each rot was not identified. It was noted during 1955–56 and 1957–58 and, to less marked extent, in 1956–57 also, that in certain samples the percentage of apples recorded as damaged by these rots was less after gas storage than after cold storage, despite the higher temperature and longer period of storage, whereas with other samples the converse occurred.