Plant Pathology Science

Apple postharvest diseases are usually caused by a wide range of pathogenic fungi. Postharvest rot of this crop is one of the most important economic diseases and also one of the main factors in reducing the lifespan of this crop. In contrast, our current knowledge of the occurrence and latent contamination during storage and its epidemiology is limited. The pathogenic fungi Botrytis cinerea and Penicillium expansum causing gray mold and blue mold, respectively, are the most common pathogens in the cultivation areas, which are usually inhibited by the use of synthetic fungicides. However, due to the growing concern over the use of synthetic fungicides, alternative control measures such as using physical treatments, natural compounds, and biocontrol agents are highly desired. Although no method has been approved as a definitive method of postharvest diseases management, the effectiveness of yeasts such as Candida saitoana, bacteria such as Rahnella aquatilis, and fungal species such as Trichoderma harzianum has been suggested.