The white stuff on blackberries, also known as “white drupelet,” is a common issue that can affect the appearance and taste of the fruit. When you look closely at a blackberry, you will notice that it is made up of multiple small seed-like structures called drupelets. Each drupelet is like a tiny individual fruit within the larger fruit.
White drupelet appears as a tan-to-white discoloration on the surface of these drupelets. It can affect just one drupelet or many, causing the affected areas to stand out against the dark color of the ripe blackberry. This can make the fruit look less appealing and may raise concerns about its quality.
The presence of white drupelet on blackberries is not uncommon and can be caused by various factors. One possible cause is a fungal infection called Botrytis cinerea, commonly known as gray mold. This fungus thrives in cool and humid conditions, which are often present in the late spring and early summer when blackberries are ripening. Gray mold infection can lead to the development of white drupelet on the fruit.
Another potential cause of white drupelet is sunburn. Blackberries are typically grown in full sun, and excessive exposure to intense sunlight can cause damage to the fruit. This damage can manifest as white discoloration on the drupelets.
In some cases, white drupelet may also result from physical injury to the fruit. Rough handling during harvesting, transportation, or storage can cause bruising or damage to the drupelets, leading to the development of white discoloration.
It is important to note that the presence of white drupelet does not necessarily mean that the blackberries are unfit for consumption. While the affected areas may not be as visually appealing, the fruit can still be perfectly edible and flavorful. However, if the white drupelet is accompanied by other signs of spoilage, such as moldy or mushy fruit, it is best to discard those berries.
To minimize the occurrence of white drupelet on blackberries, it is essential to follow good cultivation practices. This includes providing adequate air circulation around the plants, proper pruning to reduce overcrowding, and ensuring that the fruit is harvested gently to avoid damage. Additionally, maintaining optimal growing conditions, such as well-drained soil and appropriate irrigation, can help prevent fungal infections.
White drupelet on blackberries is a common issue that can affect the appearance of the fruit. It can be caused by fungal infections, sunburn, or physical damage. While it may make the blackberries less visually appealing, the fruit is usually still safe to eat. By implementing proper cultivation practices, the occurrence of white drupelet can be minimized, ensuring healthier and more attractive blackberries.
