Determining the optimal harvest time for pomegranate variety wonderful in semi-arid climate

Due to limited local knowledge regarding the optimal harvest time for this non-native variety, a two-year study (2021-2022) was conducted using a randomized complete block design with four blocks. This study aimed to determine the ideal harvest time based on quantitative and qualitative fruit characteristics in saveh, which has a semi-arid climate. Twelve similarly sized trees were selected for each orchard, and fruits were harvested at three-time intervals: 155 days after flowering (DAF) (September 27), 170 DAF (October 12), and 185 DAF (October 27). Ten fruits from four sides of the tree canopy were collected and analyzed for physical and biochemical properties. The results showed that harvest time significantly affected fruit weight, aril weight, and juice percentage positively, while it negatively impacted rind percentage. The first harvest date yielded the lowest quantitative and qualitative traits, with incomplete skin and aril coloration. By the third harvest, pomegranate fruits exhibited the highest total soluble solids (17.76 °Brix), pH (3.41), and anthocyanin content (32.56 mg/L), along with the lowest total phenols (17.28 mg GAE/L), antioxidant capacity (79.78%), and titratable acidity (1.11%), resulting in the highest flavor or ripening index (16.31). In addition, cracking rates increased substantially, reaching 30.25% by the third harvest, compared to negligible levels of 20.72% by the second harvest. Juice percentage and aril weight improved significantly with delayed harvest, peaking on October 27. These findings suggest that October 12-27 is the optimal harvest window for superior fruit quality while considering the risk of fruit cracking. This study provides practical insights into harvest timing for maximizing the marketability and nutritional value of 'Wonderful' pomegranates in semi-arid climates.