Interspecific Differences in Postharvest Quality on Mexican Christmas Trees

There are no comparative studies in postharvest quality of Mexican Christmas trees. The objective of this study was to identify the best postharvest performing Mexican cultivated species. The experiment was done in the 2004-2005 season with six replications (trees) of Abies religiosa, Cupressus lindleyi, Pinus ayacahuite, and Pseudotsuga menziesii; from two provenances (Tlaxcala and Veracruz) for the last two species. Cultural management was similar. Each tree was placed under dry conditions according to a completely randomized design. Secondary branches, twig diameter and density, initial and final weight, biomass allocation, areas and volumes, total and twig moisture content, foliage density, color, chlorophyll a/b ratio, CO2 and ethylene production were evaluated. Analyses of variance, comparisons of means, correlation, and simple regression were performed. The four studied species displayed undesirable characteristics. Genetic improvement is required. P. menziesii showed values nearer ideotype breeding in more variables. The best provenance was Tlaxcala. Several correlations between variables showed tradeoffs in selecting the best species.