Comparative Effects of Catechol, Some Related Compounds, and Other Chemicals on Suberization of Cut Potato Tubers

Abstract

The effects of treatments with 8 ortho-dihydric phenols, a meta-dihydric phenol, and Dithane Z-78 on cut surfaces of Bliss Triumph potato tubers was compared to controls in their relation to stimulation of suberization and periderm formation. All the ortho-dihydric phenols except protocatechuic acid stimulated the formation of a thicker suberized layer than was found on the controls, and catechol, one of this group, was found to be the best. The stimulation effect of this group of compounds on suberization was found to be associated with their ability to serve as a substrate of tyrosinase which is significant in this process. Resorcinol, a meta-dihydric phenol inhibited suberization apparently by its adverse effect on tyrosinase.