Bitter Pit in Apples: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world. They are not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins and minerals. However, sometimes apples can develop a condition called bitter pit which affects their appearance, taste, and nutritional value. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and prevention of bitter pit in apples.

What is Bitter Pit?

Bitter pit is a physiological disorder that affects apples. It is characterized by small, sunken, brown spots on the skin of the fruit. These spots are caused by the breakdown of the cell walls in the apple's flesh, which results in a bitter taste and a mealy texture. Bitter pit usually develops after the apples have been harvested and stored for some time.

Causes of Bitter Pit

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of bitter pit in apples:

1. Calcium Deficiency: Apples need calcium to develop properly. When there is not enough calcium available in the soil, the apples may not be able to absorb it effectively. This can lead to the development of bitter pit.
2. Environmental Factors: Extreme temperatures, drought, and high humidity can all contribute to the development of bitter pit in apples. These conditions can cause stress on the apple tree, which can affect the quality of the fruit.
3. Harvesting: Apples that are harvested too early or too late are more likely to develop bitter pit. This is because the fruit may not have had enough time to develop properly or may have been left on the tree for too long.
4. Storage: Apples that are stored for too long or at the wrong temperature can also develop bitter pit. This is because the apple's cells can break down over time, leading to the development of brown spots.

Symptoms of Bitter Pit

The symptoms of bitter pit in apples are easy to identify. The most common symptoms include:

• Small, sunken, brown spots on the skin of the apple
• A bitter taste and mealy texture
• Soft, mushy areas under the skin

Prevention of Bitter Pit

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent bitter pit in your apples:

1. Plant Apple Trees in Calcium-Rich Soil: If you are planting apple trees, make sure that the soil is rich in calcium. You can add calcium to the soil by using lime or gypsum.
2. Manage Environmental Conditions: Try to keep the environmental conditions around your apple tree consistent. Avoid extreme temperatures, drought, and high humidity.
3. Harvest at the Right Time: Make sure you harvest your apples at the right time. This will ensure that they are fully ripe and have developed all the necessary nutrients.
4. Store Apples Correctly: Store your apples in a cool, dry place. Make sure that the temperature is between 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity is around 90 percent.
5. Use Calcium Sprays: You can also use calcium sprays on your apple trees to help prevent bitter pit. These sprays are applied to the leaves of the tree and absorbed into the fruit.

Bitter pit can be a frustrating problem for apple growers, but it is preventable. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help ensure that your apples are healthy, delicious, and free from bitter pit.

Gambar apel sehat

apple diseases, calcium deficiency, fruit disorders, crop management, orchard management