Evaluation of Feasibility of Mechanical Harvesting of Myrtle Berries (Myrtus Communis L.)

The use of machinery for the mechanical harvesting of small fruits requires a detailed study of
the physical characteristics of the fruits. In this work the parameters (mean geometric diameter,
fruit surface area and apparent elasticity) to be considered for the purpose of designing
mechanical systems for use in the harvesting and interception of myrtle berries are defined.
Three different varieties grown were compared: RUM 4 was found to be the most suitable for
harvesting with facilitating machinery.