HORTICULTURE

Detailed explanation-1: -Harvest Maturity It may be defined in terms of Physiological maturity and horticultural maturity, it is a stage, which will allow fruits / vegetables at its peak condition when it reaches to the consumers and develop acceptable flavour or appearance and having adequate shelf life.

Detailed explanation-2: -Importance of maturity indices: • Ensure sensory quality (flavour, colour, aroma, texture) and nutritional quality. Ensure an adequate postharvest shelf life. Facilitate scheduling of harvest and packing operations. Facilitate marketing over the phone or through internet.

Detailed explanation-3: -Fruit Color: Fruit skin or flesh color changes as the fruit matures or ripens. Firmness: Soluble Solids Content and Starch content: Number of days from fruit set: Specific gravity: