INCIDENCE OF RAIN SPLITTING IN SWEET CHERRIES TREATED WITH CALCIUM OR COATING MATERIALS

Calcium chloride (CaCl2) and Ca(OH)2 sprays reduced rain splitting in Van cherries (Prunus avium L.). Multiple applications were better than single sprays. Soluble solids content was increased in many instances by the treatments. Fruit shrivel was appreciable in cherries sprayed with Ca(OH)2 particularly in hot seasons. Single or multiple applications of Nutri-Save (a polymeric coating), Pro-Stick (a sticking agent) and Envy (an antitranspirant) did not affect rain splitting in Stella cherries.