POMEGRANATE
fruit is native from Iran to the Himalayas in northern India and
was cultivated and naturalized over the whole Mediterranean region
since ancient times. It is widely cultivated throughout India and
the drier parts of southeast Asia, Malaya, the East Indies and tropical
Africa. The tree was introduced into California by Spanish settlers
in 1769. In this country it is grown for its |
The
fruits are ripe when they have developed a distinctive color and
make a metallic sound when tapped. The fruits must be picked before
over maturity when they tend to crack open, particularly when rained
on. The pomegranate is equal to the apple in having a long storage
life. It is best maintained at a temperature of 32° to 41°
F. and can be kept for a period of 7 months within this temperature
range and at 80 to 85% relative humidity without shrinking or spoiling.
The fruits improve in storage, becoming juicier and more flavorful. |
