ABSTRACT
Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a common major edible fruit grown widely throughout the tropical and subtropical region originated at tropical America (Mexico to Peru). It is popularly called as “apple of tropics” and “super fruit” for its rich content of minerals, vitamins (A and C) along with edible seeds that are rich in omega-3, omega-6 poly unsaturated fatty acids, and dietary fiber. The utility of fresh consumption and value addition makes guava an important fruit crop with its regular demand throughout the year except few months and thus, compete with other major fruit crops with good production and economic return with low input. Adoption of innovative farm techniques like high density planting of quality planting material, crop regulation through physical and chemical means, mulching and micro 352irrigation systems make it possible to get year round production of quality fruit of guava that attracts farmers toward more utilization of land for guava cultivation. High perishability and susceptibility to damage (mechanical or physiological), diseases and insect-pests infestation are the main problems for its postharvest life, but has very good processing values. Researchers all over the world, develops strategies of modified atmosphere storage, film packaging, irradiation provision to escape postharvest loses both from disease-pest and disorders and also to improve shelf life for better shipment of the guava in export. The development of guava wilt resistant morphotypes is need of hour. The overall production strategy and crop improvement are discussed in this chapter for further improvement.
