Authors:
Tunwari B.A.,Labaran A.G. and
Aji, P.O., Kyugah J.T. and Williams W.S ,Nigeria |
Abstract:
Tomato fruit are vested with problems of field and storage rot. Among these are Aspergillus
niger and A. flavus which are omnipresent in all tomato growing regions. Experiments were
carried out in 2017 and 2018 on the effect of plant extracts and varieties in extending the shelf
life of tomato fruits in the study area. Tomato fruits samples consisting of two varieties (Seria
and Tangino) obtained from three different locations namely New Market, Old Market, and
Federal university gate (FUW) were used for the experiments. The result showed that Neem leaf
extract, Garlic bulb extract, and Ginger extract were effective in reducing mycelia growth,
extended shelf life and maintain the quality of tomato fruits during storage. Significant variations
were observed among the varieties in relation to most of the parameters studied. Irrespective of
treatment, weight loss, postharvest decay, marketability, shelf life, and firmness decrease with
increase in storage duration. The Ginger extract had a significant effect in preventing tomato rot
disease compared to Neem leaf extract. The finding indicates that Ginger extract can be used to
extend shelf life and quality of tomato fruits beyond their natural limit |
