Book overview
Over the past few years there has been an increase in the variety of tropical fruits available for consumption, due to improved breeding, postharvest management and distribution systems. The production and world trade of fresh tropical fruits is expected to expand further, aided by consumer demand for healthy diets and for trying new foods. The third edition of this book covers major tropical fruits such as avocado, banana, litchi, mango, papaya, and pineapple. The first five chapters describe general aspects of the tropical climate and its soils, fruit production techniques, tree management, and postharvest handling. Following these are self-contained chapters on single fruits that provide in-depth studies of botany, taxonomy, varieties, propagation, orchard management, biotic and abiotic problems, and utilization. The ancient and modern propagation and cultural practices are described to show the regional differences that environmental and biological pressures exert on fruit production and fruit quality. Tropical Fruits 3rd edition is essential reading for students and teachers of horticulture and tropical agriculture, as well as for horticultural industry personnel.