Effects of rootstock on fruit quality traits of williams pear during cold storage

This research was conducted to determine the effect of different rootstocks on some fruit quality characteristics and phytochemical content of 'Williams' pear (Pyrus communis L.) during cold storage. Seven different rootstocks were used in the study: pear seedling, OHxF 87, OHxF 333, Fox 11, Farold 40, Quince BA29, and Quince A. Fruits were hand-harvested at commercial maturity. All fruits were placed in modified atmosphere packaging and pre-cooled with cold air at 4±0.5 °C and 90±5% relative humidity for 24 h. The fruits were then stored at 0±0.5 °C and 90±5% relative humidity for 4 months, and measurements were taken at monthly intervals. When the overall averages for the rootstocks were evaluated, the lowest weight loss was determined in fruits grafted onto Quince A, BA 29, and Farold 40 rootstocks. The lowest respiration rate was measured in fruits grafted onto OHxF 333 rootstock. The highest fruit firmness was found in fruits grafted onto Fox 11 rootstock. Pears grafted onto BA 29 rootstock showed the highest soluble solids content (SSC), while the lowest acidity was observed in fruits grafted onto seedling rootstock. Fruits grafted onto Quince A and BA 29 rootstocks were found to have the highest vitamin C, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity content. At the end of cold storage (120th day), weight loss in pears grafted onto Quince A, BA 29, Fox 11, Farold 40, and OHxF 87 was similar, but lower than those grafted onto seedling and OHxF 333 rootstocks. The lowest respiration rate was measured in fruits obtained from rootstocks grafted onto OHxF 333 rootstock. The highest fruit flesh firmness was determined in fruits grafted onto Fox 11 rootstock. The highest SSC and acidity were obtained from fruits grafted onto seedling rootstock. The highest vitamin C content was found in fruits grafted onto Quince A and BA 29 rootstocks on days 30 and 60 of storage. Total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (in DPPH and FRAP assays) were found to be higher in fruits grafted onto seedling and Quince A rootstocks compared to fruits grafted onto other rootstocks. As a result, it was demonstrated that the rootstock has an effect on the fruit quality characteristics and phytochemical compounds of 'Williams' pears stored in cold conditions.