STORAGE OF TRUCK CROPS: THE GIRASOLE, HELIANTHUS TUBEROSUS

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Abstract
Girasole tubers in storage under the conditions of the experiment have a larger amount of water-soluble carbohydrates per unit green weight than tubers left in the ground over winter. The tubers may be successfully stored as a truck crop and as propagation stock at 32[degree]-35[degree] F., and a relative humidity of 89-92%. The optimum conditions for storage are still to be determined. Tubers stored at above 40[degree] F. lose moisture rapidly, shrivel, and are subject to storage diseases to such an extent that practically the entire crop so stored is lost by the end of the storage period. From the time of maturity up to the end of January there is a consistent decrease in the ratio of fructose to glucose, and of fructose to total water-soluble carbohydrates. From the standpoint of possible fructose manufacture, harvesting and utilization should take place near the time of maturity in November under Minnesota conditions. There is apparently a seasonal variation in the proportion of the water-soluble carbohydrates extractable. At the time of harvest the tubers do not contain appreciable amounts of free reducing sugars.

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