Russeting

• Russeting of apples in a humid environment is a major concern of the fruit growers.
• Russeting occurs shortly after petal fall.
• The apple cultivars, which have thin cuticle, are more susceptible to russeting.
• It is commonly noticed on exposed fruits than on fruits remaining in shade. Frost during the blossom or at the early fruit formation stage may also cause russeting.
• Russeting leads to rupture of the fruit skin and development of cracks.

Control:

• Selection of less susceptible clones and adequate irrigation, manuring and effective pest management can reduce russeting.