Optimising the pre-harvest management of orchards to maximise the storage and eating quality of fruits
Orchard management practice should always be geared towards maximum yields of class 1 fruit. The influences of such practices on storage quality need to be considered in order that appropriate marketing strategies can be put into place.
Where such practices adversely affect storage or eating quality, remedial measures need to be taken where these are available. The influence of pre-harvest factors on storage quality operate primarily through effects on yield, fruit size and vegetative growth.