Techniques for long-term storage of table grapes

Abstract

Table grape storage experiments were conducted in 1974 and 1975 with Nyora grapes to enable the extension of marketing periods. Grapes were packed in half-bushel (450 mm x 290 mm x 135 mm) boxes and stored in a standard cool room with various treatments. In 1974 two-stage SO2 generators, polyethylene liners and tight or loose packing were compared using grapes treated with field benomyl sprays. SO2 generators proved very effective in maintaining grape quality, particularly when used with polyethylene liners and a loose pack, enabling a storage life of four months. In 1975 the best treatment was reassessed in both wooden boxes and the cheaper cardboard box. Unwaxed cardboard boxes were inferior to wooden boxes for storing grapes. Field benomyl sprays were marginally beneficial in controlling moulds in storage. In 1975 benomyl treated grapes packed loose with a polyethylene liner and two-stage SO2 generators, were kept in an acceptable condition for six months.