POST-HARVEST DISEASES, DISORDERS AND BLEMISHES OF KINNOW (CITRUS RETICULATA BLANCO); THEIR CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES.

Kinnow has been a high profit earning commodity throughout the whole world for many years. But the current situation is not satisfactory for export of Kinnow, as only 2.6% of Kinnow export is being done in developed countries. Most of the Pakistani production Kinnow is being exported to Middle East countries, Iran, Afghanistan, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Russia etc. One of major reasons for decreased export is losses occurred in result of various infections and lowered cosmetic quality during postharvest period. Kinnow is perishable in nature and easy peel-able soft fruit which require special care and management during production and postharvest period. The aim of this study was to investigate root causes of these problems during post-harvest chain and their management strategies, observing the preventive management strategies would help to avoid postharvest losses of citrus crop occurring through various defects, disorders and diseases. Postharvest management techniques and strategies are applied to Kinnow for extension of shelf life, freshness and appearance ultimately reducing postharvest fruit losses. Approximately, one third crop losses can be minimized through appropriate handling and management during harvesting, grading, sorting, packing, storage and transportation. Proper management of diseases, disorders and blemishes on the scientific basis can improve quality and value of the produce minimizing the losses. Infection causing pathogens in citrus fruit like Kinnow mandarin can be grouped as wound pathogens and latent pathogens waiting for suitable conditions to be active. Apart from the diseases, citrus is also vulnerable to various rind disorders and defects adversely affecting the cosmetic outlook and ultimately market acceptability. Preventive management strategies include maintenance of tree vigor, tree pruning, skirting, orchard sanitation, caring for fruit quality, observing fruit maturity standards, harvesting, packing and postharvest handling through best postharvest management practices. Observing the preventive management strategies would help to avoid postharvest losses of citrus crop occurring through various defects, disorders and diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]