The relationship of cell size,intercellular space,and specific gravity to Bruise depth in potatoes

Cell size, specific gravity and intercellular space (IS) of 11 potato varieties were measured and compared with depth of bruising to determine if these factors are related to bruising. Rate of application of supplemental fertilizer did not change IS or tissue specific gravity. Variations in fertility level, moisture content of soil and temperatures during the periods of tuber growth and maturation caused only small differences in tissue specific gravity and IS. Depth of bruising, cell size, and IS differed among varieties. Analysis showed bruise susceptibility of tubers of different varieties was highest for tubers having low specific gravity, large cell size and high IS.