Modulating physiological indices and metabolic energy models by leaf-to-bunch rachis ratio during the transition of...

This study examined the impact of the leaf-to-bunch ratio (LBR) on the post-harvest quality and physiological characteristics of Mazafati dates. Three LBR ranges (1.5-2, 2-2.5, and 2.5-3) were evaluated to determine their influence on fruit ripening, biochemical composition, and storage potential.

Increasing LBR improved fruit quality, as reflected in higher total soluble solids (TSS)/acidity ratio, tissue firmness, antioxidant content, and anthocyanin levels. The 2.5-3 LBR group exhibited the highest TSS/acidity ratio (35.31), firmness (3.51 kg/cm²), and anthocyanin content (0.15 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside per gram) at harvest. However, this ratio also led to increased ethylene production (1.35 μL/kg/h) and respiration rate (13.51 mL CO₂/kg/h), accelerating ripening and quality loss over prolonged storage. After 60 days, this group showed greater weight loss (>10%) and a decline in antioxidant content (0.92 mg GAE g^⁻1). In contrast, the 2-2.5 LBR group exhibited better long-term quality retention, with lower weight loss (maximum 3.61%), higher antioxidant preservation (1.52 mg GAE g^⁻1), and balanced respiration and ethylene production (<5 mL CO₂/kg/h and 0.9 μL/kg/h, respectively).

The results indicate that an LBR of 2.5-3 enhanced initial fruit quality, making it suitable for the short-term Rutab-to-Tamar transition. Conversely, the 2-2.5 ratio offers better long-term storage stability by reducing quality degradation and weight loss. These insights can aid in optimizing storage strategies to minimize post-harvest losses in Mazafati dates. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.