ARS | Publication request: Is timing the key to good fruit phenolics?: year 1

Submitted to: Northwest Center for Small Fruit Research Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: August 1, 2011
Publication Date: December 15, 2011
Citation: Lee, J., Tarara, J.M. 2011. Is timing the key to good fruit phenolics?: year 1. Northwest Center for Small Fruit Research Proceedings.

Interpretive Summary: This is a progress report for a NCSFR funded proposal on our findings to better understand how microclimate impacts anthocyanin (red colored compounds; phytochemicals) accumulation during berry ripening. We found that the use of light exclusion boxes during ripening lowered red grape anthocyanin levels compared to naturally shaded and exposed clusters. This work contributes towards our growing body of knowledge on environmental stresses and anthocyanin development in fruit.

Technical Abstract: Anthocyanins (natural pigments; phytochemicals) are important quality indicators in red colored fruit. We report our findings on the effect light exclusion boxes had on ‘Merlot’ grapes’ anthocyanin profile and accumulation. Unlike previous reports, this study was unique in that temperature, light intensity, and humidity (microclimate variables) were continually measured for the entire duration of the experiment. Light exclusion during ripening lowered red grape anthocyanin levels compared to control (naturally shaded and exposed) clusters. This work contributes towards our growing body of knowledge on environmental stresses and anthocyanin development in fruit.