Postharvest response of 'Brown Turkey' figs (Ficus carica L.) to the inhibition of ethylene perception

The potential use of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) alone or as a supplement to cold storage to delay the softening of ‘Brown Turkey’ figs (Ficus carica L.) was studied. Figs were treated with 0, 0.25, 0.5 or 5 µl l−1 1‐MCP at 25 °C for 8 h and stored at 20 °C until evaluated. Figs treated with 0.5 or 5 µl l−1 1‐MCP had higher ethylene production and respiration rates but slower softening than untreated fruit and those treated with 0.25 µl l−1 1‐MCP. Early‐harvested firm figs and late‐harvested soft figs were untreated or treated with 0.5 or 5 µl l−1 1‐MCP at 25 °C and stored at 0 °C for 19 days. Firm figs treated with 1‐MCP showed an early peak in ethylene synthesis, higher respiration rate and were firmer than control fruit. In contrast, soft figs did not respond to 1‐MCP except for a late increase in respiration rates of fruit treated with 5 µl l−1 1‐MCP. 1‐MCP appeared to have a relatively limited effect on slowing ripening of ‘Brown Turkey’ figs and its effect was influenced by ripening stage. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry