NaOCl Treatments Before Shipment Prevent Botrytis Cinerea Infection in Potted Roses

Abstract

Botrytis cinerea infection is a common problem for commercial growers of potted miniature roses (Rosa hybrida L.), especially after packaging and transporting in humid conditions to consumers. Growers need environmental friendly and sustainable solutions to this significant matter which causes quality loss for their products. That is why we investigated the efficiency of different concentrations of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) treatments as spray or dip after harvest (production) at different maturity, 1-5 days before shipment (DBS). Spray applications of NaOCl at 200 µL L-1 3 days before shipment dramatically reduced Botrytis cinerea infection of flowers and buds in miniature rose plants. Repeated sprays at 3+2 DBS significantly increased the efficacy of the NaOCl treatment and an additional application (3+2+1 DBS) completely eliminated infection. Spray applications were as effective as dipping the plants. © 2024 International Society for Horticultural Science. All rights reserved.