Blossom thinning and managing bitter pit, storage life and fruit quality in organically grown apples

Abstract

Blossom thinning and application of calcium influence storage life and apple fruit quality. Spray application of lime sulphur (4-5%) with olive oil (3%) and 0.05% synertrol oil as a surfactant at 75% bloom was most effective in reducing crop load with minimum leaf scorching and improved fruit quality in organically grown apple. Four spray applications of Biomin® calcium (3kg/ha) were highly effective in reducing bitter pit, scald and maintaining organic apple fruit quality.