Citrus sinensis cultivation in Ethiopia and postharvest biocontrol using plant extracts and microbial antagonists

Abstract

Postharvest application of chemical pesticides on fruit and vegetables has serious longterm effects on human health and environment and can result in resistant pathogen strains. The search for biopesticides using microbial antagonists and natural plant products has subsequently become more important as viable alternatives to control postharvest diseases. In this study, besides documenting the preharvest citrus cultivation practices, pests and postharvest disease incidences in Ethiopia, extracts from two plant species and three microbial antagonists have been documented as a breakthrough postharvest biocontrol agents. Besides controlling citrus infection, the semi‐commercial application of antagonists and plant extracts has also improved fruit quality and may provide a commercial solution for citrus industry world wide. This book will provide substantial information to Citrus Producing Companies, Agricultural Field Experts, Plant Pathologists, Biocontrol Product Processing Experts and Scientists interested in the field.