ISHS Acta Horticulturae 347: II International Symposium on Integrated Fruit Production
PROGRESS TOWARDS INTEGRATED CONTROL OF POST HARVEST ROTS OF COX APPLES IN THE UNITED KINGDOM |
| Author: | A.M. Berrie |
| Abstract:
Fungal rots such as Monilinia fructigena, Nectria galligena, Botrytis cinerea, Phytophthora syringae and Penicillium expansum cause economic losses in stored Cox apples in most years, the level and frequency depending on seasonal weather conditions and orchard factors. Previously, average commercial losses due to such rots have been maintained below two per cent under UK conditions by the routine use of post harvest fungicide dips or drenches, such as benzimidazole alone or in mixtures with metalaxyl. These treatments, though having many advantages environmentally, are not liked by markets or consumers and are not permissible in the General Principles, Guidelines and Standards for Integrated Production of Pome Fruits in Europe. Alternative control methods have, therefore; been sought, which mainly rely on the use of pre-harvest fungicide sprays. Data are presented on the effects of low volume orchard sprays on earthworms and the orchard predatory mite (Typhlodromus pyri), as well as on levels of fungicide residue and storage rot in the fruit compared to post harvest treatments. Preliminary results are also presented of a system to determine rot risk based on orchard rot history, orchard factors and fruit mineral analysis. Such a system aims, firstly, to avoid routine orchard sprays by determining need for treatment, and secondly, to assess fruit storage potential should any form of fungicide treatment be undesirable. | |
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