How to store fragrant buds

To ensure the freshness and quality of Toona sinensis (also known as Chinese toon) after harvest, proper storage conditions are essential. The stems and leaves of this plant are very tender, with a high water content, which makes them prone to wilting, leaf drop, and spoilage during post-harvest handling. One of the main challenges is moisture loss, which leads to rapid deterioration. To minimize these issues, it's recommended to store the buds at 0°C with a relative humidity of 80-85%. Using small plastic films or breathable packaging can help maintain the desired environment and prevent excessive drying. The variety of Toona sinensis plays a significant role in its storage potential. There are two main types: purple buds and green buds. Purple buds, which have a purplish-brown color, are generally more suitable for long-term storage due to their better quality and higher market value. Green buds, although less valuable, tend to be more cold-resistant. Harvesting should occur between mid-April and late April, with two harvesting sessions spaced about 10–15 days apart. It's best to pick the main buds first, followed by the lateral ones. Harvesting in the early morning helps reduce water loss and prevents wilting. When collecting, care must be taken not to damage the buds or leaves, as any injury can accelerate spoilage. For storage methods, there are several effective options: 1. **Indoor Storage**: Choose a cool, moist, and well-ventilated space. Before placing the buds, sprinkle water on the floor to increase humidity, then lay down a layer of matting. Place the buds on the mat, approximately 10 cm thick, and cover them with wet grass or a plastic sheet. This method can preserve the buds for up to 5–7 days, but regular ventilation and humidity checks are necessary to avoid overheating or mold growth. 2. **Water Dip Storage**: Arrange the base of the buds neatly, bundle them into small bunches, and place them in shallow containers filled with 3–4 cm of water. Let them soak overnight, then transfer them to baskets or boxes in a cool, ventilated area. This technique helps maintain freshness for a short period, ideal for immediate use. 3. **Cold Storage**: For longer preservation, select thick, disease-free buds and remove any old stems from the base. Bundle them into small portions (0.25–0.5 kg), pre-cool them, and place them in plastic boxes or cartons. Use 0.02–0.03 mm thick polyethylene film to wrap the bundles, along with an ethylene absorbent (such as a gauze bag soaked in potassium permanganate solution). Alternatively, use perforated plastic bags with small holes to allow for gas exchange while maintaining humidity. Store at 0–1°C with 80–85% humidity. This method can extend the shelf life to about one month, preventing dehydration, wilting, and leaf drop.

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