Journal of Applied Microbiology, Vol.92, No.2, 247-255, 2002
Post-harvest biological control by Pantoea agglomerans (CPA-2) on Golden Delicious apples
Aims: To investigate the potential of Pantoea agglomerans to control the major post-harvest diseases on Golden Delicious apples. Methods and Results: In laboratory trials, a high level of control of Penicillium expansum, Botrytis cinerea and Rhizopus stolonifer was obtained with P. agglomerans. In semi-commercial trials at VC in air and a low oxygen atmosphere, the reduction of blue mould was 81% and 100%, respectively, and control of grey mould was achieved equally with P. agglomerans and imazalil. In trials at PC and seven atmosphere conditions, maximum reduction in decay was 80% obtained at 3% O-2-6% CO2. The population of P. agglomerans on apples followed the same pattern under all three atmosphere conditions studied. Conclusions: Pantoea agglomerans could be used effectively on apples under a wide range of temperature and atmosphere conditions. Significance and Impact of the Study: Pantoea agglomerans can be used as a biocontrol agent on apples at 8 x 10(7) Cfu ml(-1), the same concentration as in pears. This will facilitate the application of this biological control agent by the growers in packing houses.