Summary
This review examines plant growth-promoting bacteria as an agroecological alternative to synthetic fungicides for controlling Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), a major pathogen affecting fruits and vegetables worldwide. The authors synthesise evidence on multiple PGPB biocontrol mechanisms—including antibiosis, competition for space and nutrients, ethylene modulation, and induced systemic resistance—and assess the efficacy of individual bacterial inoculations versus multispecies microbial consortia. The paper concludes that PGPB represent a viable option for environmentally friendly disease management and warrant expanded adoption in agroecological production systems.
UK applicability
Grey mould is a significant horticultural problem in UK glasshouses and field-grown soft fruits, particularly strawberries and protected crops. PGPB biocontrol strategies could support UK transition towards reduced-pesticide horticulture, though efficacy data from UK climate conditions and commercial growing systems would be needed to inform practical adoption.
Key measures
Mechanisms of PGPB-mediated biocontrol; characteristics of anti-Botrytis compounds; effects on conidial and mycelial structures; comparison of single-strain versus consortium approaches
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises biocontrol mechanisms exerted by plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) against Botrytis cinerea, including antibiosis, nutrient competition, ethylene modulation, and plant defence induction. The paper evaluates the comparative advantages of individual PGPB inoculations versus microbial consortia for grey mould prevention.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.