Deciduous Tree Fruit

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of ASHS, Thompson, Faust, Martin, and Dewey (1979) individually reviewed the history of progress in temperate zone fruit physiology for the previous 75 years. The advances made during the last 25 years parallel advances in a wide range of sciences, including plant physiology, entomology, plant pathology, agricultural engineering, and computer science. New methods in instrumentation and biotechnology have changed the conduct of basic research in this area with implications that are only now being felt. Perhaps the greatest change has resulted from a greater awareness of the environmental impacts of technology, leading to a reevaluation of many of the old practices. New concepts, such as integrated pest management, organic horticulture, and environmental protection, have raised new issues that have yet to be resolved. The computers has revolutionized the collection and processing of data. The development of tissue culture for propagation of plants opened the door to its use for gene transfer, another revolutionary procedure that is currently in full flower with no end in sight. In this review we will discuss advances in tree fruit production, handling, storage, and marketing under three headings: changes in the plant, cultural practices, and postharvest procedures. Emphasis will be on applied rather than basic research.