This research had the aim of evaluating the physicochemical growth and changes during maturation of hybrid Torreon melons (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis Naud.). Melon plants were cultivated in the NFT (Nutrient Film Technique) hidroponic system from January to April 2004 in Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. Flowers in anthesis were daily tagged and linear measures of longitudinal and transverse diameter were made at a 3-day interval, beginning at anthesis. Starting from 25 days after anthesis (DAA), 10 fruits were randomly harvested each 3 days. These fruits were individually assessed for ethylene synthesis, respiration rate, flesh firmness, soluble solids contents, titratable acidity and flesh colour. Fruits exhibited growth until approximately 26-29 DAA, when ripening process initiated. A large rise in ethylene synthesis was observed, reaching 44µL kg-1 h-1 at 34 DAA, which was accompanied by an increase in respiration and a decrease of total titratable acidity and flesh firmness of fruit. In addition, flesh colour of fruit became redder, as fruit ripened. Fruits slipped from vine at about 37 DAA showing mean values of total soluble solids of 10.5°Brix.
Ethylene; fruit quality; growth
