Tamarillo (Cyphomandra betacea): Effect of field-applied fungicides and post-harvest fungicide dips on storage rots of fruit

Abstract

Abstract A regular field spray programme of captafol reduced the incidence of fungal rots and enhanced storage longevity of tamarillo (Cyphomandra betacea (Cav.) Sendt.) fruit. Captafol and benomyl field sprays in combination with a prochloraz + imazalil post-harvest dip treatment enhanced fruit appearance after storage by preventing breakdown of the calyx. The prochloraz + imazalil post-harvest dip was the most effective single treatment, giving complete control of tamarillo rots after 6 weeks cool storage followed by 1 week at ambient temperatures. Bitter rot (Glomerella cingulata (Stonem.)) was responsible for most rejection of fruit. Diaporthe phaseolorum (Cke. & Ell.) and Phoma exigua Desm. became increasingly important in causing the rejection of dipped fruit as the storage interval was increased.