Abstract:

This study investigated the effectiveness of treatment with different concentrations of sodium borate or potassium
borate under in vitro and in vivo conditions to control postharvest soft rot in “Dajiexing” apricot caused by Rhizopus stolonifer.
In addition, the effect of treatment with each borate on the quality of the fruit during postharvest storage was examined as
well. The results showed that both borates could effectively inhibit mycelium growth and spore germination of R. stolonifer.
Potassium borate at 0.25 g/100 mL or 0.5 g/100 mL as well as sodium borate at 0.5 g/100 mL could completely inhibit
mycelium growth and significantly inhibit spore germination. Post-harvest borates dipping treatment could reduce the natural
incidence of soft rot at 0 ℃ and RH (85 ± 5)% and the lesion diameter in apricot fruits inoculated with Rhizopus stolonifer,
especially when using sodium borate. Borates treatment could also significantly alleviate the weight loss, maintain firmness,
delay the increase of total soluble solid content and keep the color of the fruits.

Key words: apricot, Rhizopus stolonifer, borates, soft rot