Integrated Control of Alternaria Blotch in Apple Orchards

Abstract

An investigation of Alternaria blotch in apple orchards was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of fungicides, plant extracts and bioagents against Alternaria mali through the development of integrated disease management strategies. Under pot conditions, potential combinations of fungicides, plant extracts and biocontrol agents for mitigating the disease were evaluated. Furthermore, polyhouse studies showed that bioagents such as Trichoderma viride, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens have disease control potential. Moreover, this research explored the impact of fungicides on the production of primary inoculum, highlighting the potential to impede conidial production by the pathogen. Over two cropping seasons, field assessments indicated the efficiency of integrated approaches in managing Alternaria blotch of apples. This study highlights the importance of reducing chemical inputs while ensuring successful disease management, offering important insights into a more sustainable approach to the management of diseases in apple orchards.