Effect of different production systems and fastening methods on postharvest losses in swiss chard (Beta Vulgaris l. Var. Cicla l.)

Abstract

This work, carried out in the College of Agricultural Sciences, UNR, in autumn, winter and spring with the objective of evaluating the effect the effect evaluates the effect of production systems, fastening methods and days of storage on yield and postharvest losses on Swiss chard along three seasons. The trial was carried out taking into account three factors: 1) Production systems: greenhouse (I), shade cloth (MS), frost protection fl eece fabric (MF), and open fi eld (C); 2) fastening method: bunches (A) and no fastening (G); 3) storage days. The variables measured were: yield, dry matter, weight loss by discarding, weight loss by water, and color index. In all three seasons, I obtained the highest yield and lowest dry matter content. I and MF obtained the least eight loss by discarding in autumn; in winter and autumn they increase with the days of storage. I and MF recorded the lowest weight losses per water in autumn on days 3 and 6 of storage. Chard showed a tendency towards yellowish green in MF in autumn, C in winter and I in spring, in all days of storage.