Different agronomic factors influence the quality and storage life of the produce.
For example, mineral nutrition significantly determines the chemical composition of fruits, their growth, and their ability to be stored for a long time. Numerous studies have shown that an excess of nitrogen can have a negative impact, as it leads to a decrease in the density of fruits and berries, deterioration of their color, as well as a reduction in transportability and resistance to mechanical damage.
A deficiency of calcium in apples can cause various disorders that lead to rapid aging of the fruits, such as bitter pit and browning of the flesh.
The storage life of fruits also depends on the rootstock. Trees grown on dwarf rootstocks begin to bear fruit earlier and produce larger fruits. However, such fruits ripen faster and store worse compared to fruits grown on vigorous rootstocks. For long-term storage, medium-sized fruits are preferable: large fruits overripen more quickly, while small ones lose moisture and wilt faster.
