Abstract Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is the second most produced mushroom globally, but increased production is linked to new diseases. This study reports the first occurrence of Penicillium brevicompactum on P. ostreatus mushrooms. Symptoms, identified in the primordia, include atrophy, malformation, drying, and sporulation, causing up to 100% losses. The pathogen was confirmed with 99% identity via ITS region analysis and phylogenetic comparison. The research highlights P. brevicompactum’s infection of mushroom primordia, emphasizing the need for pathogen identification and preventive measures to mitigate production losses. Pleurotus globally diseases P mushrooms Symptoms primordia atrophy malformation drying sporulation 100 losses 99 comparison brevicompactums s 10 9 1

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the bromatological composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activities, and color of the leaves of olive cultivars Arbosana, Arbequina, Frantoio, Manzanilla, and Koroneiki in northwestern Paraná, Brazil. Leaves of each cultivar were collected for the experiment, which was carried out in a completely randomized design. The dry matter (DM) of olive leaves contains mostly carbohydrates (56.15 to 59.42 g 100 g-1 DM) and fibers (17.37 to 19.73 g 100 g-1 DM) in its bromatological composition. The total polyphenol content ranges from 13.27 to 22.81 mg GAE g-1, with cultivar Manzanilla standing out, and the flavonoid content from 6.50 to 7.65 mg QE g-1. Manzanilla shows the highest antioxidant activity of 93.56 and 78.15% in the DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. When compared with the other cultivars, Manzanilla and Koroneiki have leaves with a higher green intensity and total chlorophyll content of 0.958 and 0.833 mg 100 mL 1, respectively. In the ABTS assay, there is a correlation both between total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity and between chlorophyll content and antioxidant activity. Olive leaves have characteristics that allow their application as an additive or ingredient for the development of food products with satisfactory antioxidant activity.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição bromatológica, os compostos bioativos, as atividades antioxidantes e a cor das folhas das cultivares de oliveira Arbosana, Arbequina, Frantoio, Manzanilla e Koroneiki no noroeste do Paraná, Brasil. Folhas de cada cultivar foram coletadas para o experimento, realizado em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. A matéria seca (MS) das folhas de oliveiras contém majoritariamente carboidratos (56,15 a 59,42 g 100 g-1 de MS) e fibras (17,37 a 19,73 g 100 g-1 de MS) em sua composição bromatológica. O teor de polifenóis totais varia de 13,27 a 22,81 mg EAG g-1, com destaque para a cultivar Manzanilla, e o conteúdo de flavonoides de 6,50 a 7,65 mg EQ g-1. Manzanilla apresenta a maior atividade antioxidante de 93,56 e 78,15% nos ensaios DPPH e ABTS, respectivamente. Em comparação às demais cultivares, Manzanilla e Koroneiki apresentam folhas com maior intensidade de verde e teor de clorofila total de 0,958 e 0,833 mg 100 mL-1, respectivamente. No ensaio ABTS, há correlação tanto entre o teor de polifenóis totais e a atividade antioxidante quanto entre o teor de clorofila e a atividade antioxidante. As folhas de oliveira apresentam características que permitem sua aplicação como aditivo ou ingrediente para o desenvolvimento de produtos alimentícios com atividade antioxidante satisfatória.

ABSTRACT The best sensorial Brown Turkey figs for the fresh market are the ones harvested soft. However, at this maturity stage, they have a very short shelf life, from two to seven days, depending on environmental conditions, which make their marketing very difficult. This research’s goal was to increase the shelf life of soft 'Roxo de Valinhos' figs, a 'Brown Turkey' plant material grown in Brazil, stored under refrigeration, by applying 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), an ethylene inhibitor. Soft 'Roxo de Valinhos' figs were submitted to 1-MCP at 0; 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5 µg. L-1 for 24 h in airtight, under refrigeration at 4 ± 1 ºC. Subsequently, fruits were stored for up to 17 days at 4 ± 1 ºC. After removing from refrigerated conditions, fruits were kept for one day at room temperature (22 ºC), and then they were evaluated to determine their physical and chemical features. 1-MCP at 1.5 µg. L-1 was able to increase the soft figs shelf life to 12 days.

Resumen La producción de fresa (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) mediante el uso del sistema de fertirrigación semihidropónico es una tecnología cada vez más adoptada. Uno de los principales desafíos de este sistema es el manejo nutricional del nitrato (NO3 -) y el amonio (NH4 +), que pueden afectar el desarrollo y la calidad de los frutos. Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar la mejor relación NO3 -:NH4 + para una mejor calidad de frutos de fresa cultivados en un sistema semihidropónico. Los corredores de fresa ‘San Andreas’ se plantaron en sustrato orgánico compuesto por cáscara de arroz carbonizada y corteza de pino. Las proporciones de NO3 -:NH4 + evaluadas en fertirrigación fueron 100: 0; 75:25; 50:50; 25:75 y 0:100. El contenido de nitrógeno de las hojas y la pérdida de masa seca aérea mostraron un aumento proporcional concomitantemente con un aumento de NH4 + en la solución. El área foliar y el contenido de clorofila aumentaron hasta 29% de NH4 + en la solución nutritiva, mientras que concentraciones más altas afectaron negativamente estas características. Las características químicas de las frutas no se vieron afectadas por la relación NO3 -:NH4 +, pero la firmeza de la pulpa disminuyó a medida que aumentaba el NH4 + en la solución nutritiva. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que los frutos de fresa con mejor desarrollo y calidad se obtuvieron aplicando NO3 -:NH4 + en solución de fertirrigación en la proporción de 71:29.

Abstract Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) production by using the semi-hydroponic fertigation system, is an increasingly adopted technology. One of the main challenges of this system is the nutritional management of nitrate (NO3 -) and ammonium (NH4 +), which can affect fruits development and quality. This work aims to determine the NO3 -:NH4 + ratio of the nutrient solution for better quality of strawberry fruits grown in a semi-hydroponic system. ‘San Andreas’ strawberry runners were planted in an organic substrate composed by charred rice husk and pine bark. The NO3 -:NH4 + proportions evaluated in fertigation were 100:0; 75:25; 50:50; 25:75 and 0:100. Leaf nitrogen contents and aerial dry mass loss showed a proportional increase concomitantly NH4+ increase on the solution. Leaf area and chlorophyll content increased up to 29% NH4 + in the nutrient solution, while higher concentrations negatively affected these characteristics. Chemical fruits’ features were not affected by the NO3 -:NH4 + ratio, but the pulp firmness decreased as the NH4 + increased in the nutrient solution. Results obtained showed the best strawberry fruits development and quality were obtained by applying NO3 -:NH4 + in fertigation solution at the ratio of 71:29.

Resumen Vriesea incurvata es una bromelia nativa de la Selva Atlántica Brasileña y se comercializa como planta ornamental de maceta. Las características morfológicas de su escapo floral también pueden indicarla como un nuevo producto para uso como flor cortada. Sin embargo, su comportamiento poscosecha era desconocido. Este estudio se realizó para determinar su vida útil en florero mediante la aplicación de agua destilada (control) y soluciones de sacarosa (50 g L-1), ácido salicílico (50 µM) y ácido cítrico (50 g L- 1) por períodos de 8 y 24 h. Escapos florales mantenidos en las soluciones presentaron una vida útil en florero superior a 16 días en comparación con el control (agua destilada). Sin embargo, las soluciones con sacarosa evidenciaron los mejores comportamientos relacionados al mantenimiento de las características fisiológicas y estéticas durante la vida útil en florero de los escapos florales. Se concluye que las soluciones con sacarosa, ácido salicílico y ácido cítrico por períodos de 8 y 24 h extienden la vida útil en florero de los escapos florales de V. incurvata. La solución con sacarosa aplicada por 8 h promueve el mantenimiento del color, brillo y turgencia; mejora el balance hídrico; y reduce las pérdidas de masa fresca relativa de los escapos florales durante la vida útil en florero, extendiendo su longevidad hasta 24 días.

Abstract Vriesea incurvata is a native bromeliad from Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest and commercialized as an ornamental pot plant. The morphological characteristics of its floral scape may also indicate it as a new product to use as a cut flower. However, its postharvest behavior was unknown. This study was conducted to determine its vase life by applying distilled water (control) and solutions containing sucrose (50 g L-1), salicylic acid (50 μM), and citric acid (50 g L-1) for periods of 8 and 24 h. Floral scapes maintained in solutions showed vase life greater than 16 days when compared to the control (distilled water). However, solutions with sucrose evidenced the best behaviors related to the maintenance of physiological and aesthetic features during the vase life of the floral scapes. It is concluded that solutions with sucrose, salicylic acid, and citric acid applied for 8 and 24 h extend the vase life of the V. incurvatafloral scapes. Sucrose applied for 8 h promotes the maintenance of color, brightness, and turgidity; improves water balance, and reduces the relative fresh weight losses of floral scapes throughout the vase life, extending their longevity up to 24 days.

ABSTRACT: The unique chemical composition of yerba mate and its functionalities suggest that it needs to be explored for its innovation potential. New uses may boost consumption, surpassing the traditional consumption barrier, and making yerba mate accessible on a global level. Thus, to highlight the importance of yerba mate as a potential source of agro-economic resources, we present a review on its botanical, ecological, agronomic, and industrial aspects, along with information on the biochemical composition of this species and its biological activity.

RESUMEN El aceite esencial producido por las hojas de Eugenia uniflora es utilizado intensamente por las industrias cosmética, farmacéutica y de perfumería principalmente debido a su efecto antioxidante y sus actividades antimicrobianas y antihelmínticas. El secado y el almacenamiento de las hojas de plantas aromáticas pueden afectar el rendimiento y la calidad de su aceite esencial. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto del método de secado y las condiciones de almacenamiento sobre el rendimiento y la composición del aceite esencial en las hojas de Eugenia uniflora. El aceite esencial se extrajo de hojas secas a temperatura ambiente y a 45°C durante seis períodos de secado (0, 6, 24, 48, 72 y 96 horas). El rendimiento del aceite esencial también se analizó después de 0, 60, 120 y 180 días de almacenamiento en tres tipos de envases. El aceite se extrajo por hidrodestilación y la composición se determinó por cromatografía de gases - espectrometría de masas. Los resultados mostraron que el secado de las hojas a temperatura ambiente y 45°C durante 48 y 24 h, respectivamente, aumentó el rendimiento del aceite esencial. A 45°C, los compuestos de monoterpeno y sesquiterpeno aumentaron, con curzereno + viridifloreno identificado como los compuestos principales. Los tipos de paquetes no afectaron el rendimiento del aceite esencial, pero el aumento del período de almacenamiento lo disminuyó.

ABSTRACT The essential oil produced by Eugenia uniflora leaves is intensively used by the cosmetic, pharmaceutic and perfumery industries, mainly because its antioxidant effect and antimicrobial and antihelmintic ativities. Drying and storage of aromatic plant leaves can affect yield and quality of essential oils. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of drying method and storage conditions on the essential oil yield and composition in Eugenia uniflora leaves. The essential oil was extracted from dried leaves at ambient temperature and at 45°C for six drying periods (0, 6, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours). The essential oil yield was also analyzed after 0, 60, 120, and 180 days of storage in three types of packaging. The oil was extracted with hydrodistillation, and the composition was determined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed that drying leaves at ambient temperature and 45°C for 48 and 24 h, respectively, increased the essential oil yield. At 45°C, the monoterpene and sesquiterpene compounds increased, with curzerene+viridiflorene identified as the major compounds. The packaging did not affect the essential oil yield but increasing the storage period decreased it.

Resumo: Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (guanandi) é uma espécie nativa com potencial medicinal e também com expectativa para exploração comercial (madeira) e recuperação de áreas degradadas. As sementes apresentam dormência física e mecânica, exigindo técnicas para superação, e necessitam de conhecimento da morfologia de sementes e plântulas que subsidie as análises em laboratório e a propagação da espécie. O objetivo desse trabalho foi descrever as estruturas morfológicas de sementes e plântulas normais e anormais de guanandi, e também investigar se a completa extração do endocarpo e do tegumento, para superação de dormência, interfere na morfologia e no desenvolvimento inicial da planta e, consequentemente, na produção de mudas. Sementes de guanandi são grandes (peso de mil sementes de 1.480,9 g), envoltas em endocarpo rígido; cotilédones respondem pela maior parte do embrião e têm função de reserva; eixo embrionário é pequeno (1,0-2,0 mm) em relação à semente, porém diferenciado. As plântulas apresentam germinação hipógea criptocotiledonar, com pecíolos cotiledonares, raiz pivotante, epicótilo desenvolvendo em haste longa e ápice protegido por catafilos. As principais anormalidades observadas em plântulas são relacionadas ao sistema radicular. A extração do endocarpo e do tegumento não altera a morfologia da plântula e proporciona maior desenvolvimento, podendo ser uma estratégia vantajosa.

Abstract: Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (guanandi) is a native species with medicinal potential and also generates expectation for commercial use (wood) and for recovery of degraded areas. These seeds have physical and mechanical dormancy, requiring techniques for dormancy release; knowledge of seed and seedling morphology that assists laboratory analysis and propagation of the species is also necessary. The objective of this study was to describe the morphological structures of the seeds and normal and abnormal seedlings of guanandi, and also investigate if complete extraction of the endocarp and the seed coat to overcome dormancy will affect the morphology and initial plant development, and consequently production of transplants. Guanandi seeds are large (1000 seed weight of 1480.9 g) with a hard seed coat; cotyledons account for most of the embryo and serve as a reserve; the embryonic axis is small (1.0-2.0 mm) in relation to the seed, yet it is differentiated. The seedlings have hypogeal cryptocotylar germination, with cotyledonary petioles, taproot, and epicotyl developing into a long stem and a tip protected by cataphylls. The main abnormalities in seedlings are related to the root system. Extraction of the endocarp and seed coat does not alter the morphology of seedlings and promotes their greater development, which may be an advantageous strategy.

Resumo Existem diversas cultivares de banana resistentes à Sigatoka-negra e Fusariose da bananeira; porém, pela falta de informações referentes às características de pós-colheita, muitas são rejeitadas no mercado. A adubação nitrogenada e potássica poderia auxiliar na melhoria das características sensoriais da banana madura; no entanto, pouco se sabe sobre os seus efeitos no cultivo de bananeira, principalmente as com resistência às doenças foliares. Objetivou-se avaliar as características pós-colheita de frutos das cultivares de bananeiras do tipo Prata (Prata-Anã, BRS Platina e PA94-01), em quatro níveis de adubação com N e K2O (NK0: sem adubação; NK1: 175 e 285 kg ha-1 ano-1; NK2: 350 e 570 kg ha-1 ano-1; NK3: 525 e 855 kg ha-1ano-1, respectivamente), em três ciclos de produção. Conclui-se que as doses de N e K adotados neste trabalho não influenciaram os caracteres físico-químicos da pós-colheita nas cultivares Prata-Anã, BRS Platina e PA94-01. Independentemente das doses de N e K, as cultivares de bananeiras Prata-Anã, BRS Platina e PA94-01 apresentaram diferenças entre si nos caracteres físico-químicos de pós-colheita. Os ciclos de produção não influenciaram os caracteres físicos, mas diferiram nos químicos, nas cultivares de bananeira Prata-Anã, BRS Platina e PA94-01.

Abstract There are several banana cultivars resistant to Black Sigatoka disease and to Panama disease, but due to the lack of information regarding post-harvest characteristics, many are rejected in the market. Nitrogen and potassium fertilization may help to improve the sensory characteristics of ripe banana, but there is lack of studies on its effects on banana cultivation, especially those resistant to diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the post-harvest characteristics of ‘Prata-Anã’, ‘BRS Platina’ and ‘PA94-01’ banana cultivars at four N and K2O fertilization levels (NK0: no fertilization, NK1: 175 and 285 kg ha-1 year-1, NK2: 350 and 570 kg ha-1 year-1, NK3: 525 and 855 kg ha-1 year-1, respectively) in three production cycles. It could be concluded that N and K doses adopted in this work did not influence the post-harvest physicochemical characteristics of ‘Prata-Anã’, ‘BRS Platina’ and ‘PA94-01’ banana cultivars. Regardless of N and K doses, ‘Prata-Anã’, ‘BRS Platina’ and PA94-01’ banana cultivars presented differences regarding post-harvest physicochemical characteristics. Production cycles did not influence the physical characteristics but differed in post-harvest chemical characteristics in ‘Prata-Anã’, ‘BRS Platina’ and ‘PA94-01’ banana cultivars.

Resumo Estudos fenológicos com cultivares de amoreira-preta e a caracterização física, química e sensorial dos seus frutos são necessários para a escolha da cultivar mais adaptada às condições locais e para a destinação correta das frutas. Assim, objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar a fenologia de diferentes cultivares de amoreira-preta, bem como determinar a qualidade de seus frutos com foco na recomendação de cultivares que sejam mais adaptadas ao clima local. Além disso, buscou-se indicar qual a melhor destinação dos frutos produzidos, seja para consumo in natura, seja para matéria-prima na industrialização. Os resultados indicam que as cultivares estudadas tiveram condições adequadas para a expressão de seu potencial produtivo, sendo a cultivar Tupy a mais produtiva. Os frutos das cultivares Tupy, Guarani e Cherokee apresentaram dupla aptidão, ou seja, podem ser consumidos in natura ou destinados à industrialização, já os da cultivar Xavante são adequados apenas para o processamento na indústria de alimentos.

Abstract Phenological studies with blackberry cultivars and the physical, chemical and sensory characterization of fruits are necessary to select the best cultivar adapted to local conditions and for the correct destination of fruits. The objective of this work was to evaluate the phenological stages of different blackberry cultivars, as well as to determine the quality of fruits, focusing on the recommendation of cultivars that are more adapted to local climate conditions. Moreover, the aim was to indicate the best destination of fruits produced, for either fresh consumption or as raw material for processing. The results indicated that the cultivars studied have adequate conditions for the expression of their productive potential, being Tupy cultivar the most productive. Fruits of Tupy, Guarani and Cherokee cultivars presented dual aptitude, which means they can be consumed fresh or or as raw material for processing, whereas those of Xavante cultivar are suitable only for processing.

RESUMO Pittosporum undulatum (pau-incenso) é considerada espécie ornamental de elevado potencial invasor, dada sua grande capacidade de adaptação para colonizar habitats diversos. Visando a subsidiar ações de manejo para o seu controle, apresenta-se revisão sobre aspectos botânicos, ecológicos, etnobotânicos e silviculturais relacionados a esta espécie. Programas de controle devem incluir este tipo de informações de modo a assegurar que os limitados recursos destinados a esta questão sejam eficazmente alocados. Ressalta-se a importância de abordar de forma holística as causas da invasão, particularmente o papel da estrutura original e modificações funcionais impostas sobre os ecossistemas e seus processos, desde a colonização pela espécie invasora.

ABSTRACT Pittosporum undulatum (Australian cheesewood) is considered an ornamental species with high invasive potential, due to its strong adaptation capacity to colonize different habitats. Aiming to support controlling management actions, a review of its botanical, ecological, ethnobotanical and silvicultural aspects are presented. Control programs should include this type of information to ensure that the limited resources devoted to this issue will be efficiently allocated. It is important to address holistically the causes of the invasion, particularly the role of the original structure and functional changes imposed on ecosystems and their processes, since colonization by invasive species.

RESUMEN El higo es una de las frutas más perecederas en la poscosecha, lo cual ha promovido estudios para evaluar el efecto a aplicación de sustancias en el fruto después de la cosecha con el fin de conservar su calidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de diferentes concentraciones 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) en la calidad de poscosecha del higo variedad Roxo-de-Valinhos. El experimento fue realizado con aplicaciones de cuatro concentraciones de 1-MCP (0 - testigo, 5, 10 y 20 µg L-1) en los frutos que fueran evaluados en cinco diferentes períodos de almacenamiento (0, 4, 8, 12 y 16 días). El tratamiento con 1-MCP no aumentó el contenido de sólidos solubles totales (SST), sin embargo se observó un considerable incremento en el período de 12 y 16 días de almacenamiento. La acidez elevada fue obtenida en los frutos no tratados con 1-MCP a los 8 días de almacenamiento y en los tratados con 20 µg L-1 de 1-MCP a los 12 días de almacenamiento. El 1-MCP no influenció en la pérdida de peso de los frutos. Los higos tratados con las dosis de 1-MCP mostraron valores prometedores y crecientes de firmeza, acidez y SST. Las concentraciones de SST tendieron a aumentar a una dosis más alta, por lo que puede ser interesante probar esta sustancia aplicada en las concentraciones más altas que las utilizadas en este trabajo.

ABSTRACT The fig is one of the most perishable fruits during the postharvest phase, which has prompted studies to evaluate the effects of substances applied on figs after harvest in order to extend their postharvest life. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on the postharvest quality of Roxo de Valinhos figs. The research was conducted by applying 4 concentrations of 1-MCP (0 - control, 5, 10, and 20 µg L-1) on figs, after which the fruits were evaluated at five different storage times (0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 days). The results showed that 20 µg L-1 of 1-MCP provided the best fruit firmness at day 12 after harvest. The 1-MCP treatments did not improve the total amount of total soluble solids (TSS), but we observed higher amount of total solids from 12 to 16 days of storage. Higher acidity was observed in the figs without a 1-MCP treatment at 8 days of storage and with 20 µg L-1 of 1-MCP after 12 days of storage. 1-MCP did not affect fruit weight loss. The figs treated with 1-MCP showed promising and rising values of firmness, acidity, and TSS at the highest dose. The TSS concentration tended to increase at the higher doses. As a result, it could be interesting to assay this substance with applications with higher concentrations than those used in the present study.

ABSTRACT The increasing consumer demand for fruit quality justifies the development of researches that combine orchards management and consumers’ perception of the quality of the product. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen fertilization combined with green pruning intensity on fruit quality of ‘Chimarrita’ from high density peach trees during three consecutive harvest seasons. For this purpose, urea composed of different nitrogen rates (0, 40, 80, 120, 160, 200 and 240 kg.ha-1.year-1) was applied, under two intensities of green pruning (annual – once per season; or continuous – four times per season) in a factorial scheme (7 × 2). Fruits have been subjected to physical, chemical and sensorial analysis, made by 60 non-trained evaluators in each of the harvest seasons. The results showed that the cumulative effect of applying N in the third harvest season improved SS attributes, SS/TA ratio and fruit skin color to the dose of N of 148 kg.ha-1 .year-1. There is no difference between green pruning intensity and peach fruit quality.

Resumo Para a recomendação de novas cultivares, são necessários estudos quanto à adaptação no local de cultivo. Logo, objetivou-se avaliar o desenvolvimento fenológico, a produtividade e a qualidade de frutos de oito cultivares de mirtileiro do grupo rabbiteye (Aliceblue, Bluebelle, Bluegem, Briteblue, Climax, Delite, Powderblue e Woodard) e duas do grupo highbush (Georgiagem e O’Neal) em condições de clima subtropical úmido, nos ciclos de 2012/2013, 2013/2014 e 2014/2015. Foram avaliadas as datas do início e do final de floração, início e final de colheita, frutificação efetiva, produção, massa, diâmetro, pH, teor de sólidos solúveis, acidez titulável, ratio e coloração. As cultivares avaliadas apresentaram floração no período de julho a setembro, concentrando a colheita nos meses de novembro e dezembro. As maiores frutificações efetivas foram observadas nas cultivares Delite, Climax, Briteblue e Powderblue. Houve diferenças entre as cultivares quanto à massa do fruto, tamanho, pH, teor de sólidos solúveis e acidez. Os resultados demonstraram que as cultivares exibiram coloração azul, com poucas variações ao longo dos anos de avaliação. As cultivares com melhor desempenho produtivo, em condições de clima subtropical úmido, são Bluegem, Delite, Climax e Powderblue.

Abstract Studies on adaptation to the cultivation site are necessary for the recommendation of new cultivars. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenological development, productivity and fruit quality of eight blueberry cultivars from the rabbiteye group (Aliceblue, Bluebelle, Bluegem, Briteblue, Climax, Delite, Powderblue and Woodard) and two from the highbush group (Georgiagem and O’Neal) under humid subtropical conditions in the 2012/2013, 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 cycles. Beginning and end of flowering, beginning and end of harvesting, fruit set, production, mass, diameter, pH, content of soluble solids, titratable acidity, ratio and coloring were evaluated. The evaluated cultivars presented flowering in the period from July to September, concentrating harvest in the months of November and December. The highest fruit set was observed in Delite, Climax, Briteblue and Powderblue cultivars. There were differences among cultivars regarding fruit mass, size, pH, content of soluble solids and acidity. The results showed that the cultivars exhibited blue color with few variations over the evaluation years. Cultivars with the best productive performance under humid subtropical climate conditions are Bluegem, Delite, Climax and Powderblue.

RESUMO O crescimento do consumo per capita de flores no Brasil ainda é baixo quando comparado a outros países, entre os vários fatores que podem estar atrelados a este desnível de crescimento cita-se o estabelecimento de poucas ou ineficientes estratégias de marketing. Neste contexto, apresenta-se resultado da avaliação do perfil e comportamento do consumidor de flores, visando a subsidiar as ações de marketing para o segmento comercial varejista da cadeia produtiva de floricultura. O estudo foi realizado a partir de entrevistas a 300 pessoas de ambos os gêneros no momento em que compravam flores em 22 floriculturas do litoral do Paraná. Esta região foi selecionada em função de seu potencial de produção e comercialização de flores que é similar a outras regiões brasileiras e outros países onde a floricultura apresenta relevância econômica. Identificou-se o gênero feminino como consumidor majoritário (n = 62,7%), com tendência a elevação no consumo a medida que avançava a escolaridade (Coeficiente de Correlação de Spearman, p < 0,05 = uso próprio r = 0,122; p = 0,039; presentear r = 0,174; p = 0,003). Registrou-se média de aquisição de 4,4 ± 1,9 vezes por ano, com consumo preferencial de orquídeas (n = 36,3% para uso próprio) e rosas (n = 86,7%, para presentear). O comércio varejista de flores não atendia a expectativa dos clientes especialmente em relação a preço, promoções e qualidade da produção. O gênero masculino e a classe de consumidores da terceira idade podem representar importantes alternativas de incremento ao consumo atual de flores.

ABSTRACT The growth of per capita consumption of flowers in Brazil is still low when compared with other countries. Among several factors that may be linked to this growth gap, the establishment of few or ineffective marketing strategies was cited. In this context, we present the results of the profile and behavior of flower consumer, aiming to subsidize marketing actions for the retail segment of flower supply chain. The study was conducted through interviews with 300 people of both genders at the moment they were buying flowers at 22 flower shops in the Paraná coast. This region was selected due to its potential for flower production and commercialization, which is similar to other Brazilian regions and other countries where the flower market has economic relevance. The female gender was identified as the major consumer (n = 62.7%), with tendency of increase in consumption as education level advanced (Spearman correlation coefficient, p < 0.05 = for own use r = 0.122; p = 0.039; for gift r = 0.174; p = 0.003). The acquisition average of 4.4 ± 1.9 times per year was registered, with preferential consumption of orchids (n = 36.3% for own use) and roses (n = 86.7%, for gift). The flower retail trade did not meet the expectations of consumers, especially in relation to price, promotions, and production quality. The male gender and the elderly consumer class may represent important alternatives to increase the current consumption of flowers.