Quality attributes during maturation of ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Red Delicious’ apples grown in two geographical regions with different environmental conditions

Apples have distinctive quality attributes that may be defined by environmental conditions of the geographical regions where fruits are cultivated, such as temperature, solar radiation, photoperiod, and photothermic units. A three-year study was conducted to compare ‘Golden Delicious’ ‘Red apples from two different regions, Washington, USA (WA) Chihuahua, Mexico (CHIH). Apple samples were harvested weekly early August late October (~120-180 days after full bloom - DAFB), analysed for parameters. Geographic data obtained, degree-days photothermal units calculated. Results show differences between CHIH WA apples. shows a ~5-week delay in apple bloom, possibly due lower temperatures presented WA. both required same ~ 2,222 h, attain beginning ripening stage, which took more (three weeks) apples, most likely attributed higher elevation orchards (2,062 vs. 763 masl). The main found firmness aroma volatile compounds. substantially amounts showed greater firmness, probably Using all (both varieties, growing zones) remarkable correlation (R=0.89), suggest could improved manipulation degree is, temperature light.