| The choice of the appropriate cultivar is a critical factor for obtaining a successful crop and for satisfying the needs of the industry and consumers. Nine commonly used or recently available varieties of cantaloupe melons (Cucumis melo L. Group Cantalupensis) were evaluated in two locations with the objective of selecting cultivars ad hoc for processing as fresh-cut cubes. Overall, the yield (30 to 45 t ha-1) and quality, including mainly the fruit size and soluble solids concentration (SSC), varied between locations, but the relative performance of cultivars was similar. The cultivars showed significant differences in attributes that are relevant for the industry and the consumer: color (from yellow to deep orange), SSC (from 8.7 to 14.7%), firmness... |
