Post-harvest disorders and diseases Russet spotting appears as small tan, brown or olive spots randomly distributed over affected leaves. When severe, these spots may join and form irregular discoloured areas. Russet spotting develops after exposure to ethylene gas. Tipburn is due to unfavourable, that is, hot, growing conditions near maturity. Marginal browning is caused by hot and dry growing conditions.
Pink rib is due to over maturity.
Common post-harvest diseases include bacterial soft rot, grey mould, downy mildew and watery soft rot. Bacterial soft rot is the most severe disease in transit and storage. Tomato Minimum requirements Tomatoes should be intact, fresh and sound. They should be clean, free from foreign matter, off-smell or taste. They should be regular in shape and colour typical of the variety.