Which type of fruit typically exhibits signs of soft rot like leaking and softness?

Soft rot is a common postharvest disease that primarily affects fruits and vegetables, leading to symptoms such as leaking, softness, and a decayed appearance. Stone fruits, which include peaches, plums, and cherries, are particularly susceptible to soft rot due to their high water content and the structure of their flesh.

As stone fruits ripen, they can become soft and are more vulnerable to bacterial infections, which can cause rapid deterioration and the characteristic symptoms of soft rot. The breakdown of cell walls in stone fruits leads to the leaking of fluids and softening of the fruit. Furthermore, stone fruits often have a thin skin that can be easily damaged, creating an entry point for pathogens.

In contrast, other choices like leafy greens, root vegetables, and citrus fruits exhibit different types of postharvest decay. Leafy greens may show signs of decay like wilting or sliminess but are less prone to the same degree of soft rotting seen in stone fruits. Root vegetables mainly show signs of decay related to firmness, and citrus fruits are more resilient against soft rot due to their tough skin and acidic nature, which inhibits bacterial growth. Thus, stone fruits are distinct in their susceptibility to soft rot, making them the correct choice in this context.