Abstract

GARCIA SAHAGUN, Ma. Luisa et al. Action of ogligosaccharides on the yield and quality of tomato. Rev. fitotec. mex [online]. 2009, vol.32, n.4, pp.295-301. ISSN 0187-7380.

In this research oligosaccharides extracted from plant cell walls were evaluated regarding yield and quality of tomato fruits (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) "bola" type of cv. 'EF 163'. The commercial products Enerplant® and Pectimorf® were compared against a control without oligosaccharidies. The quality variables evaluated in four bunches of red tomatoes were: pH, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), TSS/TA ratio, fruit weight, firmness and color ("L" value, Hue angle and chrome). Differences (P ≤ 0.05) between bunches were found regarding their quality traits. The best by titratable acidity (TA) were the first and fourth bunches; the second bunch was best in the TSS/TA ratio; the first bunch was best in fruit weight; and the third bunch outstanded in yield. The applied oligosaccharides increased plant yield in 22 % by Enerplant® and in 40 % by Pectimorf®. Those products also improved fruit quality by increasing in 0.06 and 0.04 % the titratable acidity, total soluble solids in 13 % with Pectimorf® and in 9 % with Enerplant®, fruit firmness in 47 % with Enerplant® and in 27 % with Pectimorf®. Enerplant® produced shiny and less red fruits, compared to Pectimorf® and the control. The applied oligosaccharides had not effect on the pH. In conclusion, the of applications oligosaccharides increased yield and quality of tomato fruits.

Keywords : Lycopersicon esculentum; oligosaccharides; yield; quality firmness.

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