The Influence of Chitin- and Chitosan-Based Soil Amendments on Pathogen Severity of Apple and Pear Scab

Apple and pear scab are foliar pathogens of apple trees. Unmanaged, yield aesthetic losses can be severe. The risk resistance associated with over-reliance on fungicides means novel pathogen management methods products increasingly required. Chitin chitosan widely recognised as induced (IR) agents that trigger plant defence responses in turn enhance resilience to ingress. A container field trial was conducted using (Malus sylvestris) (Pyrus communis ‘Conference’) respectively assess the efficacy a range liquid granular chitin/chitosan-based IR fertilisers against scab. synthetic fungicide (penconazole) spray program used within UK for control included comparison. Application chitin/chitosan at concentrations above 1% caused phytotoxicity. Limited protectants also demonstrated when were applied 0.25%. However, chitin 0.5% resulted an increased leaf chlorophyll content, fruit yield, reduced severity compared watered control. Only one three evaluated (liquid chitosan). penconazole provided greatest protection trials. under conditions degree following application containing fertiliser statistically comparable treated Results suggest appropriate agent(s) offers useful addition existing conditions.