Aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) affects cv. Royal Gala apple fruit quality at harvest and after storage – Short communication

Abstract

Aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), an inhibitor of ethylene synthesis was applied at a concentration of 125 g/l of active ingredient on Royal Gala apple trees 4 weeks before the anticipated harvest in two consecutive years. Immediately after harvest fruits were stored at 1°C and 90% of relative humidity for up to 90 days. Quality assessments of total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA) and firmness were done on 30-days intervals after harvest. Treating Royal Gala apples with AVG significantly slowed down starch degradation in fruits but in the same time increased fruit weight. Also, the development of over colour was negatively affected. A positive influence on fruits’ firmness was also evident, while there was no influence of AVG on TSS and TA.