Postharvest Physiology program research focuses on improving marketability and fruit quality of sweet cherry and European pear through postharvest chemical and non-chemical treatments, and the modification of temperature and atmospheric storage conditions.  Elucidating the role of horticultural practices, nutrition, and climatic factors on postharvest disorders and fruit quality is also important.  A fully automated  pear packing line facility resides at MCAREC, allowing post-harvest handling of experimental fruit to closely resemble commercial practices. Additionally, the ability to isolate individual components of the packing line and investigate their effects on fruit quality serves as a valuable research tool.

Current Projects:

• Deliver 1-MCP treated European pears with predictable ripening capacity.
• Identify factors affecting 1-MCP efficacy on Bartlett pears at commercial level.
• Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) of pears for long term storage and export.
• Maximize benefits of wax coating application while minimize negative effects on pears.
• Alternatives of ethoxyquin for controlling superficial scald of d'Anjou pears      
• Ripening capacity of 'd'Anjou' pear: Ethylene and temperature conditioning
• Extending storage/shipping life and assuring good arrival of sweet cherry.
• Pre- and post-harvest factors affect sweet cherry fruit surface pitting resistance/susceptibility.