Biological coating with a protective and curative effect for the control of postharvest decay

摘要

Novel methods and compositions are provided for the biocontrol of plant diseases by use of a biological coating that confers both a protective and a curative effect for the control of postharvest decay. The coating includes chitosan salts, an antagonistic microorganism, and a cation. A composition of chitosan salts, CaCl2 and yeast is effective. The combined fungicidal activities of the chitosan salts and the antagonistic microorganism make the compositions of the present invention superior to previous coatings. When applied to the surface of a harvested plant commodity, the compositions both prevent and cure postharvest decay.