Effects of ozone fumigation on the control of postharvest diseases of blueberries

Gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria rot caused by Alternaria alternata are the two major postharvest diseases of blueberries in California.
The blueberry industry needs tools to extend storage of blueberries.
In this study, we evaluated the effects of continuous ozone fumigation on 1) fruit-to-fruit spread (nesting) of gray mold on fruit inoculated with B. cinerea; 2) the control of Alternaria rot on fruit inoculated with A. alternata; 3) the control of naturally occurring postharvest fruit rot diseases; and 4) fruit quality.
Seven concentrations of ozone 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, and 1.0 µL L^‑1 were tested on blueberries in two years.
Generally, the better control of fruit-to-fruit spread of gray mold and Alternaria rot was achieved as the ozone concentration increased.
Ozone fumigation significantly reduced the incidence of naturally occurring decayed fruit, but the effects varied.
No distinct trend in fruit quality parameters could be attributed to ozone fumigation.
Further research is needed to optimize the application of ozone treatment for extending storage and shelf life of blueberries.

XIII International Vaccinium Symposium

S. Saito, C.L. Xiao

blueberry, ozone, disease management, Botrytis cinerea, Alternaria alternata

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1440.44